Beet in Zone 4a & 4b
Beta vulgaris
When to plant beet in zone 4b
Zones 4a and 4b 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 24–May 1 |
| Estimated harvest | Jun 18–Jun 25 (~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 4's season
Zone 4b's frost-free window runs about 128 days, from May 15 to September 20. Beet needs about 55 days from sowing to first harvest.
Good companions
- Onion: Neither competes heavily; onions deter some beet pests.
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 4b calendar · Full companion planting guide · Full plant profile · Plan your beds in the Garden Designer →
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Growing Beet in USDA zone 4b: when to start seeds indoors, when to direct-sow, and when to expect a harvest.
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