Plant Profile

beetBeta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris Conditiva Group

A versatile root vegetable with edible leaves, known for its intense color and earthy flavor.

Root vegetablesAmaranthaceae
Calendar
beet (Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris Conditiva Group): plant portrait - Root vegetables, Amaranthaceae, Harvest June
beet: plant portrait. harvest: June - November.

Quick profile

Key data

Growing calendar
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Indoor sowing
Direct sowing outdoors
Planting outdoors
Harvest
Indoor sowingDirect sowing outdoorsPlanting outdoorsHarvest

Suitable growing locations:

Outdoor garden bedRaised bedContainerBalconyGreenhouseWindowsill

Good neighbors

OnionGarlicBush Beankohlrabi

Avoid

Pole BeantomatoSwiss ChardSpinach

Indoor & direct sowing

beet: Sowing and germination

Indoor sowing

For an early harvest or in cool weather, sowing indoors is possible.

Direct sowing outdoors

Direct sowing into the open ground from mid-April, once the soil has warmed up. Later sowings allow for a continuous harvest.

Seed depth2 - 3 cm
Germination temp7 - 25 °C
Germination time7 - 21 days
Light germinatorNo
Dark germinatorYes
Cold germinatorNo
Stratification neededNo
Pre-soaking recommendedNo

Planting & site

beet: Planting and spacing

Planting outdoors

Pre-cultivated young plants can be transplanted outdoors after the last frosts.

Plant spacing10 - 15 cm
Row spacing30 - 40 cm
Plants per m²15 - 30 per m²
Bed widthfrom 60 cm

Temperature & frost

beet: Temperature and site

Growing temperaturefrom 7 °C
Optimal temperature15 - 22 °C
Max. heatup to 30 °C
Soil temperature7 - 15 °C
Frost sensitiveNo
Late frost sensitiveNo
Heat tolerancemedium
Cold tolerancehigh

Water & nutrients

beet: Water, nutrients and care

Watermedium
Critical water phasesGermination, Root growth
Watering methodSoak the soil thoroughly
Droughtmedium
Waterlogging sensitiveYes
Mulching recommendedYes
Nutrient needmedium feeder
Compost recommendedYes
Fertilizer sensitivitylow

Container & growth

beet: Container, support and growth

Container suitableYes
Pot sizeVolume: from 10 l; Recommended: from 15 l; Diameter: from 30 cm; Depth: from 20 cm
Height20 - 30 cm
Width15 - 20 cm
Root depth10 - 20 cm
Root spread10 - 15 cm
Yield100 - 300 g

Year plan

beet Calendar

Plants

From spring to autumn, you can sow and harvest beetroot for a continuous supply of fresh vegetables.

Year overview
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Indoor sowing
Direct sowing outdoors
Planting outdoors
Harvest

Recurring tasks

Direct sowing outdoorsApril - May
Soil temperature at least 10°C.: Sow in rows with approximately 30-40 cm spacing.
Weed controlMay - August
Weeds are present.: Weed carefully to avoid damaging young beets.
Continuous direct sowingMay - June
Soil temperature suitable.: Sow small quantities every 2-3 weeks.
Thin seedlingsMay - June
Seedlings have developed their first true leaves.: Remove weaker plants to avoid competition.
Fertilize as neededJune - July
Visible signs of nutrient deficiency or during rapid growth.: Use a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Water regularlyJune - August
Dry weather.: Consistent moisture is important for root development.
Harvest first young beetrootsJune - July
Roots have reached desired size.: Young roots are more tender and sweeter.
Fertilize againJuly - August
Signs of nutrient deficiency.: A light feeding can promote growth.
Weed and loosen soilJuly - August
Weeds present or soil compacted.: Avoid deep hoeing to prevent root damage.
Continuous harvestJuly - August
Roots have reached edible size.: Harvest as needed, disturbing the soil as little as possible.
Harvest main cropAugust - October
Roots are mature and of desired size.: Roots should be firm and well-colored.
Continuous harvestSeptember - November
Roots have reached edible size.: Harvest as needed, disturbing the soil as little as possible. · Roots are mature. - Harvest before the ground freezes.

Relevant now

June

  • No additional single task

Next up

July

  • No additional single task

Monthly tasks

Single tasks from monthly data; repeated seasonal windows are shown in the overview above.

Direct sowingPlantingHarvestGrowingPlant health

January

Quiet month

February

Quiet month

March

Prepare the bedSowing indoors/greenhouse

Direct sowing

  • Prepare the bedGround is workable.: Loosen soil deeply and incorporate compost.

Harvest

  • Sowing indoors/greenhouseSoil temperature not yet suitable for outdoor sowing.: Use well-draining seed starting mix.

April

No additional single task

May

Transplant young plants

Planting

  • Transplant young plantsAfter last frost, soil temperature at least 10°C.: Ensure correct plant spacing.

June

No additional single task

July

No additional single task

August

Water during dry spellsCheck for pests and diseases

Growing

  • Water during dry spellsProlonged dry periods.: Consistent watering prevents cracking in the roots.

Plant health

  • Check for pests and diseasesVisible signs of infestation or disease.: Pay attention to aphids and Cercospora leaf spot.

September

Harvest leaves as vegetable greens

Harvest

  • Harvest leaves as vegetable greensLeaves are young and tender.: The leaves are nutritious and can be prepared like spinach.

October

Harvest last beetroots before frostPrepare for storage

Harvest

  • Harvest last beetroots before frostApproaching first frost.: Frost can affect the quality of the roots.

Growing

  • Prepare for storageHarvesting complete.: Gently remove leaves and soil. Store in a cool, dark place.

November

Harvest remaining rootsLoosen soil and prepare for next season

Harvest

  • Harvest remaining rootsGround is not frozen.: These roots are often sweeter after light frosts.

Growing

  • Loosen soil and prepare for next seasonBed is cleared.: Incorporate compost or green manure for the next season.

December

Quiet month

Flowering & pollination

beet Flowering & pollination

Flowering period

June - August (in 2nd year)

Self-fertility

self-fertile

Pollinator needed

no

Overview

Beetroot is primarily wind-pollinated, but insects can also contribute to pollen transfer.

Notes

The flowers are small and inconspicuous but still attract some insects. Wind is the primary vector for pollen dispersal.

Companion guide

beet Companion guide

Companion guide

Good neighbors

OnionGarlicBush BeankohlrabiLettuceDill

Avoid

Pole BeantomatoSwiss ChardSpinach

Use & storage

beet Use & storage

Harvest

Harvest can begin from June/July depending on the sowing time. Roots can overwinter in the ground and be harvested as needed.

Storage

Store in a cool, dark, and moist place, e.g., in a box with damp sand in a cellar or root clamp.

Storage life

Fresh: 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator; Stored: 4-6 months in cellar/root clamp; Frozen: up to 12 months

Flavor

Earthy, sweet, slightly tart

Harvest

Harvest can begin from June/July depending on the sowing time. Roots can overwinter in the ground and be harvested as needed.

Culinary uses

Grated raw in saladsCooked as a side dish or in soupsRoasted as oven vegetablesJuiced for beveragesPickled as a preserveLeaves as a spinach substitute

Processing

Pickling (vinegar, spices)Freezing (cooked and diced)JuicingDrying (chips)

After harvest

Cut leaves about 2-3 cm above the root crown to prevent the root from bleeding. Gently brush off soil, do not wash. Discard damaged roots.

Notes

Beetroot is versatile and can be enjoyed both hot and cold. Its intense color often remains after cooking.

Edibility & safety

beet Edibility & safety

For people

In brief: which parts are edible, which parts remain risky, and whether raw consumption makes sense.

Edible parts:Root (taproot), Leaves
Raw consumption:Yes, both the roots and young leaves can be eaten raw, e.g., grated in salads.

Safety notes

The leaves contain oxalic acid, which can be problematic in large quantities for sensitive individuals. Consuming beetroot can lead to a harmless red discoloration of urine and stools (beeturia).

Animal safety

For many animals, this plant is generally low-risk: 13 animal types are rated suitable or mostly suitable. Quantity, plant part, and individual tolerance still matter.

Animal safety by plant part

Each row shows which parts are more suitable and which parts are critical.

Companion animals

Dog icon for animal safety ratingDog

Root (beetroot)

Leaves (in large quantities)

Risk factors

Ingestion of large quantities of leaves, Individual sensitivity

Symptoms

Vomiting, Gastrointestinal upset

contact a vet if symptoms appear

Beetroot (root) is considered non-toxic to dogs and can be offered in moderation as a treat. The leaves contain oxalic acid, which can cause gastrointestinal upset in large quantities. As with any new food, consumption of plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs.

Open animal page
Cat icon for animal safety ratingCat

Root (taproot), Young leaves (in moderation)

Large quantities of mature leaves

Risk factors

Overconsumption, especially of leaves

Symptoms

Mild gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea) if consumed in excess

observe

Beetroot is generally considered non-toxic for cats by major pet safety organizations. However, due to their carnivorous diet, it should only be offered as an occasional treat. The leaves contain oxalic acid, which can cause mild gastrointestinal upset if consumed in large quantities.

Open animal page
Rabbit icon for animal safety ratingRabbit

Root (in very small quantities)

Leaves (especially mature leaves), Stems

Risk factors

Overfeeding, especially leaves, Young or sensitive animals, High sugar content in the root

Symptoms

Digestive upset, Kidney problems (with chronically high oxalic acid intake)

contact a vet if symptoms appear

Beetroot roots can be offered in very small quantities as an occasional treat. Leaves contain oxalic acid and should be fed very sparingly or not at all, especially mature leaves. High sugar content in the root requires moderation.

Open animal page
Guinea pig icon for animal safety ratingGuinea pig

Root (taproot) (in moderation), Leaves (in moderation)

No risk parts listed

Risk factors

Excessive consumption, Sensitivity to oxalic acid

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset (with excessive consumption), Harmless discoloration of urine and feces (beeturia)

observe

Beetroot can be fed in moderation. The leaves contain oxalic acid, so they should only be offered in small amounts. The red discoloration of urine and feces is harmless.

Open animal page
Hamster icon for animal safety ratingHamster

Root (taproot) (in moderation)

Leaves, Stems

Risk factors

Excessive consumption, Consumption of leaves and stems

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Increased urination, Red discoloration of urine and stool (beeturia)

observe

The root (taproot) is safe for hamsters in small amounts and can be given as a treat. The leaves and stems contain oxalic acid and should be avoided. Excessive consumption of the root can lead to digestive issues.

Open animal page
Budgie icon for animal safety ratingBudgie

Root (taproot) (in small amounts), Leaves (in small amounts)

No risk parts listed

Risk factors

Excessive consumption, Sensitivity to oxalic acid

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset (with excessive consumption), Harmless discoloration of urine and feces (beeturia)

observe

Beetroot is generally safe for budgies when offered in small amounts as a treat. The leaves contain oxalic acid, which can be problematic in large quantities. Excessive consumption may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. The red discoloration of urine and feces is harmless.

Open animal page

Farm animals

Horse icon for animal safety ratingHorse

Root (taproot) (in moderation), Leaves (in moderation, young)

Root (taproot) (in large quantities), Leaves (in large quantities)

Risk factors

Overconsumption, Consumption of large quantities of leaves, Individual sensitivity to oxalic acid

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset with overconsumption, Harmless: Red discoloration of urine and stool (beeturia)

observe

Beetroot is generally safe for horses when fed in moderation. Large quantities, especially of the leaves, can cause gastrointestinal upset due to oxalic acid content. The red discoloration of urine and stool is harmless.

Open animal page
Chicken icon for animal safety ratingChicken

Root (taproot), Leaves (in moderation)

Leaves (in large quantities)

Risk factors

Excessive consumption of leaves, Consumption of raw leaves in large quantities

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset (with excessive leaf consumption), Harmless discoloration of urine and stool (beeturia)

observe

The root (taproot) is generally safe for chickens and can be given as an occasional treat or as part of a balanced diet. The leaves contain oxalic acid and should only be fed in moderation to avoid potential gastrointestinal upset. The red discoloration of urine and feces is harmless.

Open animal page
Duck icon for animal safety ratingDuck

Root (taproot), Leaves

No risk parts listed

Risk factors

Excessive consumption, Consumption of large quantities of leaves

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset (with excessive consumption), Harmless discoloration of urine and feces (beeturia)

usually no action needed

Beetroot is generally safe for ducks, especially the root. The leaves contain oxalic acid, which can be problematic in very large quantities but is unlikely to pose a significant risk to ducks when fed in moderation. The red discoloration of urine and feces is harmless.

Open animal page
Goose icon for animal safety ratingGoose

Root (taproot)

Leaves

Risk factors

Excessive leaf consumption, Pre-existing kidney issues

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Kidney strain with excessive intake

observe

The root taproot is suitable for geese in small amounts as a treat. The leaves contain oxalic acid and should be avoided due to potential kidney strain and gastrointestinal irritation. Beeturia (harmless discoloration of feces and urine) may occur but is benign.

Open animal page
Sheep icon for animal safety ratingSheep

root (taproot)

leaves

Risk factors

high oxalic acid content in leaves

Symptoms

gastrointestinal upset from excessive leaf consumption

observe

The root of beetroot is generally safe for sheep in moderation and provides nutritional benefits. The leaves contain oxalic acid and should be fed only in limited amounts to avoid gastrointestinal upset. Excessive leaf consumption may warrant observation; consult a veterinarian if symptoms persist. Feeding should be part of a balanced diet and not replace the primary forage.

Open animal page
Goat icon for animal safety ratingGoat

root (taproot)

leaves

Risk factors

high oxalic acid content in leaves, overfeeding of root

Symptoms

gastrointestinal upset, kidney strain with excessive intake

contact a vet if symptoms appear

:The root of beet is suitable for goats in small amounts as a treat and provides valuable nutrients. However, the leaves contain oxalic acid, which can cause health issues if consumed excessively. A gradual introduction is recommended to assess tolerance. Consult a veterinarian if signs of discomfort appear. The harmless discoloration of urine and stool requires no action.

Open animal page
Cattle icon for animal safety ratingCattle

Root (taproot)

Leaves

Risk factors

excessive leaf consumption, pre-existing kidney issues

Symptoms

gastrointestinal upset, kidney strain with excessive intake

observe

The taproot of beet is suitable for cattle in moderation as a supplemental feed, providing energy and some nutrients. The leaves contain oxalic acid, which in large quantities can cause gastrointestinal upset and strain on the kidneys. The harmless red discoloration of urine and stools after consumption (beeturia) is not a concern. Cattle should primarily have access to appropriate roughage; beet should only be fed…

Open animal page
Pig icon for animal safety ratingPig

No suitable parts listed

No risk parts listed

unknown

:

Open animal page

These guidelines are for general information only and do not replace veterinary diagnosis. If critical plant parts were ingested or the animal shows unusual behaviour or symptoms, seek veterinary advice.

Max risk

unknown

Highest status

not established

Urgency

contact a vet if symptoms appear

Saving seed

beet Saving seed

Seed saving

yes

Seed viability

3 - 5 years

Storage

Store dry, cool, and dark in airtight containers. Shelf life: 3-5 years.

Practical tips

beet Practical tips

Common beginner mistakes

Irregular watering often leads to cracked or woody roots, significantly reducing quality.Sowing too densely without subsequent thinning results in small, underdeveloped roots, as plants compete for space and nutrients.Ignoring crop rotation rules can lead to an accumulation of soil-borne diseases and pests.

Success pattern

Start with good soil preparation by incorporating compost and loosening the soil deeply. This promotes healthy root development.Sow at the right time and thin seedlings early to the recommended spacing. Ensure consistent watering.Regular weed control and a layer of mulch help keep plants vigorous and maximize yield.

High-impact tips

Mulch the bed after sowing or transplanting. This saves water, suppresses weeds, and keeps the soil cool.Thin seedlings early. The removed young plants can be eaten as baby leaf greens.Choose bolt-resistant varieties to minimize the risk of premature flowering, especially in regions with variable spring weather.

Grower observations

Beetroot is surprisingly adaptable to various soil types, as long as drainage is good. However, consistent moisture is key to tender and sweet roots.Young beetroot leaves are a delicacy and should not be discarded. They can be prepared like spinach and are rich in vitamins.For a continuous harvest, it is advisable to sow beetroot in several batches, 2-3 weeks apart.

Health

Pests, Diseases

Plant health

Beet leaf minerAphidsFlea beetlesWirewormsCercospora leaf spotDowny mildewRoot rotBoron deficiencyPotassium deficiencyNitrogen deficiencyBolting

Diagnosis help

beet Diagnosis help

Pest groups

Leaf-eating insects (beet leaf miner, flea beetles)Sucking insects (aphids)Soil-dwelling pests (wireworms)

Disease groups

Leaf diseases (Cercospora, downy mildew, rust)Root diseases (root rot)

Prevention

Adhere to crop rotationPromote healthy, vigorous plants through optimal site and soil conditionsEnsure adequate plant spacing for good air circulationChoose resistant varietiesRegularly inspect for first signs of pests and diseasesGarden hygiene (removing plant debris)Encourage beneficial insects

Diagnosis

When problems arise, it's important to observe symptoms closely, check growing conditions (soil, water, temperature), and consider recent care practices to narrow down the cause.

Cultural prevention

Maintain a crop rotation of at least 3 yearsEnsure adequate plant spacing for good air circulationEnrich soil with compost and organic matterMulch to regulate moisture and suppress weedsChoose resistant varietiesRegularly remove weeds

Monitoring

Regularly inspect plants for first signs of pests or diseasesEspecially check undersides of leaves and young shootsMonitor soil moisture and temperature

First response

Immediately remove and dispose of affected plant parts in household wasteRinse off pests (e.g., aphids) with a strong jet of water or hand-pick themApply neem oil or soapy water for heavy infestationsIntroduce beneficial insects (e.g., ladybug larvae)Apply plant strengtheners (e.g., nettle manure, horsetail tea)

Diagnostic rules

Tunnels or light spots in leaves

Possible causes: Beet leaf miner

  • Hold leaves up to light to spot larvae
  • Check plants for small flies

Small, round, brown spots with red margins on leaves

Possible causes: Cercospora leaf spot

  • Check humidity and ventilation
  • Inspect older leaves first

Black spots inside the root (black heart), distorted leaves

Possible causes: Boron deficiency

  • Check soil pH
  • Conduct soil test
  • Review watering history

Premature formation of a flower stalk, woody roots

Possible causes: Bolting

  • Check weather history (cold snaps)
  • Verify variety for bolt resistance
  • Sowing date

FAQ

Why is my beetroot bolting?

Beetroot often bolts if exposed to cold stress after germination or if it experiences stress from irregular watering or nutrient deficiency. Choose bolt-resistant varieties and ensure consistent growing conditions.

Can you eat beetroot leaves?

Yes, young beetroot leaves are very nutritious and can be prepared like spinach. They are excellent for salads, smoothies, or steamed as a side dish.

How long can beetroot be stored?

Fresh beetroot lasts about 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator. Stored in a cellar or root clamp, cool, dark, and moist in sand, it can last 4-6 months. Cooked and frozen, up to 12 months.

Which companions are good for beetroot?

Good companions for beetroot include onions, garlic, bush beans, kohlrabi, lettuce, and dill. They can deter pests or improve the soil.

Is beet safe for Dog?

beet is classified as moderation only for Dog. Risk: unknown. Urgency: contact a vet if symptoms appear. Beetroot (root) is considered non-toxic to dogs and can be offered in moderation as a treat. The leaves contain oxalic acid, which can cause gastrointestinal upset in large quantities. As with any new food, consumption of plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs.

Is beet safe for Cat?

beet is classified as moderation only for Cat. Risk: unknown. Urgency: observe. Beetroot is generally considered non-toxic for cats by major pet safety organizations. However, due to their carnivorous diet, it should only be offered as an occasional treat. The leaves contain oxalic acid, which can cause mild gastrointestinal upset if consumed in large quantities.

Is beet safe for Rabbit?

beet is classified as moderation only for Rabbit. Risk: unknown. Urgency: contact a vet if symptoms appear. Beetroot roots can be offered in very small quantities as an occasional treat. Leaves contain oxalic acid and should be fed very sparingly or not at all, especially mature leaves. High sugar content in the root requires moderation.

Is beet safe for Guinea pig?

beet is classified as moderation only for Guinea pig. Risk: unknown. Urgency: observe. Beetroot can be fed in moderation. The leaves contain oxalic acid, so they should only be offered in small amounts. The red discoloration of urine and feces is harmless.

Guides

Related guides

Garden guides

Sources

Public sources

  1. Wikidata entity

    Wikidata · 2026-05-15

  2. GBIF species match

    GBIF · 2026-05-15

  3. Deutschsprachige Wikipedia: Rote Bete

    Wikipedia · 2026-05-15

  4. English Wikipedia: Beetroot

    Wikipedia · 2026-05-15

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