Can You Transplant Beets?

Starting Seeds

• To start beet seeds indoors, soak the seeds overnight to help leach out the germination inhibitor found naturally in the seed coating. Plant seeds at a depth of ½ inch in seed trays or single cells 8 to 10 weeks prior to the last frost date in the area. Press the soil very lightly on the seeds. Beet seeds germinate optimally in soil temperatures ranging between 50 and 85 degrees F. The lowest temperature at which seeds will germinate is about 40 degrees F.

Transplanting

• Since beet seeds are actually fruit containing up to 8 true seeds, a cluster of seedlings will grow from each single seed that was planted. Pinch off the weaker, unwanted seedlings, thinning the cluster to one healthy seedling. The seedlings are ready for transplanting when they develop three sets of true leaves. Handle transplants by the leaves and not the stems. Take care not to crush the stems, as this will kill the seedling. If a leaf is crushed, the plant will readily produce new leaves.

Soil

• Transfer the beet transplants into the soil conditions recommended for optimal growth. Make sure the ground is loose and well drained and is clear of debris or stones. Amend clay soils with organic matter to improve fertility, structure and drainage. Planting in raised beds is recommended, as soil tends to be less compacted. Though the vegetable adapts to a pH of 6.0 to 7.5, the preferred pH is anywhere between 6.2 and 6.8.

Care

• Mulch the plants after the transplants are well established to conserve soil moisture and discourage weed growth. Mulch also reduces soil compaction. Inspect the plants regularly for any signs of pests. Treat any infestation in early stages. Common beet problems include infestation from flea beetles, aphids, leaf miners and the cercospora leaf spot disease.