Before sowing, soak seeds overnight to encourage germination. Sow outdoors 4-5 weeks prior to the last spring frost, or 4-5 weeks before the first autumn frost. Beets are sensitive to acidic soils and prefer a pH of 6.0-7.0. Plant 3-4 seeds 1-2 inches apart in fertile, organically rich, well-drained soil. Keep soil moist for the first 21 days. Once true leaves are established, thin to 1 plant every 3-4 inches. Harvest after 55-60 days, or when 1 inch diameter of beet is showing above the soil. Harvest earlier if "baby" beets, or tender culinary beet greens, are preferred.
