Beets in mounded bed

Growing Beets in Hot Weather: Challenges and Solutions

ByStephen Albert

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Beets are a cool-season crop that thrive when daytime temperatures hover between 60°F and 70°F. But what if your growing season includes hot spells—or if you garden in a warm climate? In my 30+ years of vegetable gardening in California’s Central Valley and Sonoma Valley, I’ve learned how to coax sweet, tender beets from the soil even when the thermometer climbs.

Beets in mounded bed
Beets growing on mounded bed

Why Heat Is Hard on Beets

High temperatures can cause several problems for beet plants:

  • Bolting — Plants flower and go to seed prematurely, resulting in small, woody roots.
  • Woody texture — Roots develop tough fibers, making them unpleasant to eat.
  • Strong flavor — Heat can intensify earthiness in the roots and bitterness in the greens.
  • Poor germination — Beet seeds may struggle to sprout in soil warmer than 85°F.

Strategies for Growing Beets in Hot Weather

1. Choose Heat-Tolerant Varieties

Select varieties bred for warm conditions, such as ‘Cylindra’, ‘Red Ace’, or ‘Boltardy’, which are less prone to bolting.

2. Adjust Planting Times

  • Early crop: Plant in late winter or very early spring so beets mature before peak heat.
  • Late crop: Sow in late summer or early fall for a cool-weather harvest.

3. Use Shade Cloth

Provide 30–40% shade during the hottest part of the day. I’ve found this can lower soil temperatures by 5–10°F.

4. Mulch Generously

A 2–3 inch layer of straw or shredded leaves keeps soil cool and retains moisture.

5. Keep Soil Evenly Moist

Dry soil during heat waves stresses plants, so water consistently. In my raised beds, I use drip irrigation to maintain steady moisture.

6. Sow in Partial Shade

In hot climates, planting beets where they receive morning sun and afternoon shade reduces heat stress.

My Experience and Recommendations

When I gardened in California’s Central Valley, summer temperatures often topped 100°F. My best results came from timing plantings to avoid the hottest months, using shade cloth, and watering deeply every 3–4 days. In Sonoma Valley’s milder climate, I can extend beet season into summer with heat-tolerant varieties and a well-shaded bed.

By selecting the right varieties, adjusting planting dates, and providing protection from the sun, you can grow sweet, tender beets even in challenging heat.

Beets Growing Hub

Start here: Ultimate Guide to Growing Beets from Seed to Harvest

1. Getting Started (Timing, Planting, Varieties)

2. Growing & Care

3. Problems & Troubleshooting

4. Harvest, Storage & Kitchen Use

Stephen Albert is a horticulturist, master gardener, and certified nurseryman who has taught at the University of California for more than 25 years. He holds graduate degrees from the University of California and the University of Iowa. His books include Vegetable Garden Grower’s Guide, Vegetable Garden Almanac & Planner, Tomato Grower’s Answer Book, and Kitchen Garden Grower’s Guide. His Vegetable Garden Grower’s Masterclass is available online. Harvesttotable.com has more than 10 million visitors each year.

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