Beet Seeds,
Bull's Blood

Start planting Bull's Blood beets as soon as the soil can be worked in early spring, typically 3-4 weeks before the last expected frost, or in late summer for a fall harvest. Successive plantings every 2-3 weeks can ensure a continuous harvest. In milder climates, beets can be planted almost year-round​. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

Direct sow the seeds 1/2 inch deep and 1-2 inches apart in rows spaced 12-18 inches apart. Once the seedlings are about 2-4 inches tall, thin them to 4-6 inches apart to allow enough space for the roots to develop. Thinnings can be used in salads. For container gardening, choose a pot at least 10 inches deep and follow similar spacing guidelines.

Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, watering regularly to avoid drying out, especially during dry periods. Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer, but avoid excessive nitrogen, which promotes leaf growth at the expense of root development. Keep an eye out for pests like aphids and leaf miners, and use organic methods to control them.

• Beets are biennial, which means they don't flower until the second year of growth.
• In the first year, when frost approaches, either try to overwinter them in the ground with floating row cover (a bit risky if you live in the north) or dig up the choicest plant before a freeze and store it indoors in a cool, dry, dark location until spring.
• Replant after the last spring frost and allow to flower.
• Beets are wind-pollinated and will easily cross with other beet varieties that are flowering, as well as with Swiss chards (which fortunately very rarely flower without assistance).
• Properly stored seeds should remain viable for 5 years.