Beet Seeds,
Cylindra (Formanova)

Plant Cylindra beets 3-4 weeks before the last spring frost, or in late summer for a fall harvest. They thrive in cooler weather, with optimal growing temperatures between 50 F and 85 F. In regions with mild winters, you can also plant them in the fall for winter harvesting. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep, spacing them 1-2 inches apart in rows 12-18 inches apart. After the seedlings emerge and reach about 2 inches tall, thin them to 4-6 inches apart to allow enough room for the roots to grow. For container gardening, use pots that are at least 12 inches deep to accommodate the elongated roots.

Ensure the soil remains consistently moist, especially during the early stages of growth. Mulching can help retain soil moisture and reduce weed growth. Beets mature in about 50-60 days and are ready to harvest when they reach a diameter of 1-3 inches. Harvest them early for a sweeter flavor and a more tender texture.

• 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.