Growing Beets in Containers Successfully
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Growing beets in containers is an excellent way to enjoy fresh, homegrown vegetables even if you're short on garden space.
Whether you live in an apartment, have a small patio, or just want to try your hand at container gardening, beets are a perfect choice.
They're easy to grow, versatile in the kitchen, and packed with nutrients.
In this guide, I'll walk you through the essential steps to successfully grow beets in containers, from selecting the right seeds and soil to planting, caring for, and harvesting your crop.
Let's get started on your journey to growing delicious beets right at home!
To learn more about growing beets, check out my guide:
Choosing the Right Container
When it comes to growing beets in containers, selecting the right container is crucial for the success of your plants.
Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:
Depth and Size
Depth:
Beets have relatively deep roots, so it's important to choose a container that is at least 10-12 inches deep.
This depth allows the roots to grow and develop properly without becoming restricted, which can hinder the growth of the beets.
Size:
The container should also have enough surface area to accommodate multiple plants.
A general guideline is to space the seeds about 2-3 inches apart.
For a standard-sized container (about 12 inches in diameter), you can comfortably plant around 4-6 beets.
Larger containers can hold more plants, but make sure to provide enough room for each beet to develop.
Drainage
Good drainage is essential for preventing waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot and other problems.
Make sure your container has adequate drainage holes at the bottom.
If you're using a container without built-in drainage, consider drilling holes yourself or adding a layer of gravel at the bottom to improve drainage.
Mobility
Depending on your gardening space, you might want to move your containers around to catch the sun or protect them from harsh weather.
Choose containers that are easy to move, especially if you're growing beets on a balcony or patio.
Containers with handles or lightweight materials can make this task easier.
Grow bags are an excellent option.
Here are the grow bags that I recommend:
To learn more about starting a vegetable garden in containers, check out my guides:
Selecting Beet Seeds for containers
Choosing the right beet seeds is a crucial step in growing healthy, delicious beets in containers.
There are several factors to consider, from the variety of beets to the source of the seeds.
Here's a detailed guide to help you make the best choice:
Varieties of Beets
Red Beets:
The most common variety, red beets are known for their deep red color and earthy flavor.
Popular types include 'Detroit Dark Red' and 'Red Ace.'
These are great for both fresh eating and canning.
Here are the seeds that I recommend growing:
Golden Beets:
These beets have a bright yellow-orange color and a sweeter, milder flavor compared to red beets.
Varieties like 'Golden Detroit' are less likely to stain, making them a favorite for salads.
Here are the seeds I recommend:
Chioggia Beets:
Also known as candy-striped beets, Chioggia beets have a unique pink and white striped interior.
Varieties like 'Chioggia' are sweet and tender, adding a colorful twist to dishes.
Here are the seeds I recommend growing:
Cylindra Beets:
These cylindrical beets are easier to slice uniformly, making them ideal for pickling and roasting.
The 'Cylindra' variety is known for its smooth texture and rich flavor.
Here are the seeds I recommend:
Seed Quality
Organic Seeds:
If you're looking to grow beets organically, opt for organic seeds.
These seeds are produced without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, promoting a healthier garden environment.
Heirloom vs. Hybrid:
Heirloom beet seeds are open-pollinated and have been passed down through generations, often prized for their flavor and historical significance.
Hybrid seeds are bred for specific traits like disease resistance and uniformity.
Both have their advantages, so choose based on your gardening goals.
Seed Preparation
Pre-soaking Seeds:
Beet seeds have a hard outer shell that can benefit from pre-soaking.
Soaking the seeds in water for 12-24 hours before planting can speed up germination and lead to more uniform sprouting.
Seed Spacing:
When planting beet seeds in containers, space them about 2-3 inches apart.
This ensures each beet has enough room to grow without overcrowding, which can lead to smaller, misshapen roots.
Planting Time
Cool-Season Crop:
Beets thrive in cooler weather, making them an ideal crop for spring and fall.
If you're growing beets indoors or in a mild climate, you can plant them year-round.
Outdoor planting should be timed so that the beets mature before the hottest part of the summer or before the first hard frost in fall.
Succession Planting:
To have a continuous harvest, practice succession planting by sowing seeds every 2-3 weeks.
This staggered planting schedule ensures you have fresh beets available throughout the growing season.
Special Considerations
Microgreens:
Beet seeds can also be grown for their greens.
Beet microgreens are nutrient-dense and add a pop of color and flavor to salads and sandwiches.
Harvest the greens when they are young and tender for the best taste.
Companion Planting:
Consider companion planting to improve the growth and health of your beets.
Good companions for beets include onions, garlic, and bush beans.
Avoid planting beets near pole beans or field mustard.
For more companion planting ideas, check out my guides:
Preparing Potting Soil
The quality of your potting soil can significantly impact the success of growing beets in containers.
To learn more about potting soil, check out my guide: Does Potting Soil Go Bad? Know the Warning Signs.
Beets require well-draining, nutrient-rich soil to develop healthy roots and vibrant foliage.
Here's a detailed guide on how to prepare the perfect potting soil for your beet plants:
Choosing the Right Potting Mix
Potting Mix:
Start with a high-quality potting mix designed for vegetables.
These mixes are usually well-draining and contain a balanced blend of organic materials, compost, and perlite or vermiculite.
Look for a mix that mentions good drainage and aeration on the packaging.
Here is the potting mix I recommend for growing beets in containers:
Avoid Garden Soil:
It's essential to avoid using garden soil in containers as it can be too dense, leading to poor drainage and compaction.
Garden soil can also harbor pests and diseases that may affect your plants.
To learn more about this, take a look at my guide: Garden Soil vs. Potting Soil: How to Choose the Right One.
Enhancing the Potting Mix
Compost:
Adding compost to your potting mix can significantly improve its nutrient content and structure.
Compost provides essential nutrients that help beets grow robustly and improves soil aeration and moisture retention.
Aim to mix in about 20-30% compost into your potting mix.
To learn more about creating your own compost, check out my guide: How to Start Composting in a Tumbler and A Simple Recipe for Rich Compost Tea.
Perlite or Vermiculite:
These materials are excellent for improving soil drainage and aeration.
Perlite is a volcanic glass that helps keep the soil loose and well-drained, while vermiculite is a mineral that helps retain moisture.
To learn more, take a look at my guide: Perlite vs Vermiculite: What's Best for Your Garden?
Adding about 10-20% of either perlite or vermiculite to your potting mix can enhance its properties.
Here is the perlite that I recommend:
Coconut Coir:
This sustainable alternative to peat moss helps retain moisture and provides good aeration.
Coconut coir is pH-neutral and can be mixed with your potting soil to improve water retention without making the soil too heavy.
Use it to replace up to 30% of your potting mix.
Here is the coconut coir I recommend:
pH Level
Ideal pH Range:
Beets prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
It's a good idea to test the pH of your potting mix before planting.
Here is the pH tester that I recommend using:
Adjusting pH:
If your soil is too acidic (below 6.0), you can add lime to raise the pH.
If the soil is too alkaline (above 7.0), sulfur can help lower the pH.
Follow the instructions on the product packaging for the correct amounts to use.
Fertilizing
Slow-Release Fertilizer:
Adding a slow-release granular fertilizer to your potting mix can provide a steady supply of nutrients to your beet plants over time.
Look for a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (e.g., 10-10-10 or 14-14-14).
Here is the slow-release fertilizer I recommend:
Organic Fertilizer:
For an organic option, you can use well-balanced organic fertilizers such as fish emulsion, bone meal, or blood meal.
These provide essential nutrients and improve soil fertility without the risk of chemical buildup.
This is a great organic fertilizer:
Preparing the Container
Filling the Container:
Fill your container with the prepared potting mix, leaving about an inch of space at the top to allow for watering.
Make sure the mix is evenly distributed and not overly compacted to ensure good root penetration and growth.
Pre-Watering:
Before planting your beet seeds, it's a good idea to pre-water the potting mix.
This ensures that the soil is evenly moist and ready to support the germination and growth of the seeds.
Water the soil thoroughly but avoid making it waterlogged.
To learn more, check out my guide: How Often to Water Seedlings.
Additional Tips
Mulching:
Consider adding a thin layer of mulch on top of the soil to help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Organic mulches like straw or shredded leaves work well and also add nutrients as they decompose.
To learn more about mulch, check out my guide: The Best Alternatives to Traditional Mulch for Your Garden.
Worm Castings:
Incorporating worm castings into your potting mix can boost its nutrient content and microbial activity.
Worm castings are rich in beneficial microorganisms that help improve soil health and plant growth.
Here are the worm castings I recommend:
Learn more about growing vegetables in containers with my guides:
Planting Your Beets
Planting beets in containers is a straightforward process, but there are a few key steps to ensure successful growth.
Here's a detailed guide to help you plant your beets effectively:
Sowing the Seeds
Depth:
Plant the beet seeds about half an inch deep.
You can use your finger or a small dibber to make shallow holes in the soil.
Spacing:
Space the seeds about 2-3 inches apart.
Proper spacing is crucial to prevent overcrowding, which can lead to smaller, misshapen beets.
If you prefer, you can sow the seeds more closely and thin them out later to the recommended spacing.
Covering the Seeds:
Gently cover the seeds with soil, ensuring they are well-covered but not too deep.
Lightly press the soil down to ensure good contact between the seeds and the soil.
Watering
Initial Watering:
After planting, water the soil gently to settle it around the seeds.
Use a watering can with a fine rose or a spray bottle to avoid displacing the seeds.
Consistent Moisture:
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Beets require regular watering to develop properly, especially during germination.
Check the soil daily and water as needed to maintain moisture.
Check out my guide: How Often to Water Seedlings.
Germination
Timeframe:
Beet seeds typically take 7-14 days to germinate, depending on the temperature and growing conditions.
Warmer temperatures can speed up germination, while cooler temperatures may slow it down.
Thinning:
Once the seedlings have emerged and are a few inches tall, thin them out to the recommended spacing of 2-3 inches apart.
Thinning ensures that each beet has enough room to grow and develop properly.
You can use the thinned seedlings in salads or as microgreens.
Light Requirements
Full Sun:
Beets need full sun to grow well, so place your containers in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
A south-facing, south-west facing, south-east facing or west-facing garden location is best.
If you're growing beets indoors, position them near a sunny window or use grow lights to provide sufficient light.
Here are the grow lights I recommend:
Temperature
Optimal Temperature:
Beets prefer cool temperatures between 50-75°F (10-24°C).
If you're planting in the spring, wait until the danger of frost has passed.
In the fall, plant beets early enough to harvest before the first hard frost.
Protection:
If you're growing beets in containers outdoors and there's a risk of frost, protect your plants by covering them with frost cloths or bringing the containers indoors overnight.
Here are the plant covers I recommend using:
Mulching
Retain Moisture:
Adding a thin layer of mulch on top of the soil can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Organic mulches like straw, grass clippings, or shredded leaves work well and also provide additional nutrients as they decompose.
Fertilizing
Initial Fertilization:
If you've added a slow-release fertilizer to your potting mix, your beets should have enough nutrients to start with.
However, if you notice slow growth or pale leaves, you can supplement with a liquid fertilizer.
Ongoing Feeding:
Beets generally don't require heavy feeding.
If needed, use a balanced liquid fertilizer every 3-4 weeks, following the instructions on the label.
Monitoring Growth
Regular Checks:
Keep an eye on your beet plants for any signs of pests, diseases, or nutrient deficiencies.
Regularly inspect the leaves and soil to catch any issues early and address them promptly.
Supporting Growth:
As the beets grow, ensure they have enough space and light.
Adjust the position of your containers if necessary to maximize sunlight exposure.
Learn more about growing vegetables in containers:
Harvesting Beets
Beets are usually ready to harvest in about 50-70 days, depending on the variety.
You can start harvesting when the roots are around the size of a golf ball.
Gently pull them out of the soil, and be sure to harvest before they get too large and woody.
For a full guide on this, check out my guide: When to Harvest Beets.
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FAQs
How deep of a container do beets need?
Beets need a container that is at least 10-12 inches deep to allow their roots to develop properly.
This depth ensures the beets have enough space to grow without becoming restricted.
How long do beets take to grow?
Beets typically take between 50-70 days to mature, depending on the variety and growing conditions.
Regular care and optimal conditions can help them reach maturity faster.
Can you grow beets indoors?
Yes, beets can be grown indoors if they receive enough light.
Use grow lights if necessary to supplement natural sunlight.
How many beets can you grow per container?
You can grow several beets per container, depending on its size.
Space the seeds about 2-3 inches apart to avoid overcrowding.
Can you grow beets in grow bags?
Yes, grow bags are an excellent option for growing beets as they provide good drainage and can be easily moved.
They also promote healthy root development.
How to transplant beets?
Transplanting beets can be tricky as they don't like their roots disturbed.
If you must transplant, do it carefully and water thoroughly to help the plants settle.
What are common pests for beets?
Aphids, leaf miners, and flea beetles are common pests that can affect beet plants.
Regular monitoring and prompt treatment can help control these pests.
How to deal with foliage issues in beets?
Ensure proper spacing, good air circulation, and treat fungal diseases promptly with appropriate fungicides or organic treatments.
Regularly inspect plants for early signs of problems.
