What soil conditions do beets require?
Written by
Liu Xiaohui
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.Proper soil preparation allows beet roots to flourish! I know this all too well from years of harvesting forked beets from compressed soil. Good soil promotes plumb, straight roots instead of crooked regrets. Soil health and conditions impact everything from seed germination to harvest quality.
Drainage Requirements
- Critical depth: Loose soil 12-18 inches deep
- Test method: Dig hole fill with water drains in 1 hour
- Amendment: Add coarse sand at 1:3 ratio for clay soils
Compost Integration
- Quantity: Mix 3 inches (7.5 cm) into topsoil
- Type: Well-rotted vegetable compost or leaf mold
- Timing: Amend 2 weeks before planting
Evaluate your soil pH using uncomplicated home kits. Beets thrive between pH levels of 6.0 and 7.0 for adequate nutrient uptake. Take some samples from the areas you intend to grow beets at root depth. If your pH is below 6.0, then it is smart to add lime. If your pH is above 7.0, you should use peat moss. I do this every spring.
Get ideal texture by double-digging your soil. Mix any amendments into the soil to a depth of 18 inches and loosen the soil to a depth of 18 inches. Remove rocks and debris that might compromise roots. My best beet bed took an afternoon, over three seasons to yield.
To improve compacted soil, use broadforking techniques. Place tines into the soil and gently rock back and forth without turning over the soil layers. This process aerates the soil structure while preserving its integrity. I do this process each planting season. Your beets will find it easy to push through after broadforking the soil.
Keep nutrient balance with organic matter. Reapply compost every year, but don't use fresh manure - it makes roots hairy! I cover crop, especially with winter rye, in the off-seasons. They help add nutrients back to the soil naturally for the following year's beets.
Read the full article: How to Grow Beets from Seed Perfectly
