Beet in Zone 2a & 2b
Beta vulgaris
When to plant beet in zone 2b
Zones 2a and 2b share the same average frost dates in our data, so this page covers both.
Method: Direct sow: Direct-sow outside. Beet doesn't transplant well, or doesn't need the extra time indoors.
| Start indoors | Not typically started indoors |
|---|---|
| Direct sow / transplant outside | Apr 29–May 6 |
| Estimated harvest | Jun 23–Jun 30 (~55 days after direct-sowing) |
Spacing: 9 per square foot (square-foot-gardening spacing). Mature height: 1-1.5 ft.
Beets give you two crops in one: the root everyone thinks of, plus edible greens that can be harvested along the way without ruining the root underneath. They're also more tolerant of imperfect soil than carrots or other root crops, which makes them a good choice for a bed that isn't perfectly loose and stone-free.
How beet fits zone 2's season
Zone 2b's frost-free window runs about 104 days, from May 20 to September 1. Beet needs about 55 days from sowing to first harvest.
Good companions
- Onion: Neither competes heavily; onions deter some beet pests. (usually zones 3-10, so not a pairing for zone 2b)
Where to buy beet seeds
See why we recommend these suppliers →
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See it growing
Search YouTube for "growing beet" videos → (a live search, not a hand-picked video; results vary and aren't vetted by us)
← Back to the full zone 2b calendar · Full companion planting guide · Full plant profile · Plan your beds in the Garden Designer →
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Growing Beet in USDA zone 2b: when to start seeds indoors, when to direct-sow, and when to expect a harvest.
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