Beet
Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris
Also known asBeetroot · Garden beet · Table beet · Red beet · Remolacha
Environment
The bounded range this crop tolerates.
Climate and zones
- USDA zones
- 3–10 (winter low around -40°C)
- Frost
- frost hardy
- Season
- cool (spring/fall)
Growing systems
Root mass: moderate.
Growing media
| Medium | pH effect | Retention | Bacterial surface |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soil-based mix (Potting soil) | varies | high | high |
| Coco coir (Coconut coir) | slightly acidic | high | moderate |
Nutrient demand by stage
NPK ratios are relative weights. EC targets shift through the plant's life.
| Stage | N | P | K | EC (mS/cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| seedling | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| vegetative | 2 | 1 | 2 | 2.2 |
Aquaponics suitability
Compatible
Fish waste provides enough nitrogen for healthy growth. Supplemental potassium, calcium, and iron may still be needed depending on fish stocking density.
Care notes
A moderately challenging hydroponic root crop. The root development requires a deep growing medium (15 cm of perlite, expanded clay, or coco coir in a media bed or Dutch bucket). Pure water-culture systems (DWC, NFT) don't support root bulb formation well. EC 1.8-3.0 mS/cm. pH 6.0-7.0. Temperature: 15–24°C (cool-season crop; above 28°C, growth stalls and roots become woody). Moderate light (DLI 14-20 mol/m2/day). From seed to harvest: 50-70 days depending on variety and desired size. Beet seeds are multigerm clusters (each 'seed' contains 2-4 actual seeds), so thinning is necessary: pinch out extra seedlings to leave one per spot. Boron deficiency causes hollow, black areas inside the root (internal black spot); ensure the nutrient solution includes adequate boron. Harvest when roots are 5–8 cm diameter for the best texture and sweetness. Larger roots become fibrous and woody. The greens are harvestable throughout growth; take a few outer leaves from each plant without stripping the plant bare. In aquaponics media beds, beets grow well alongside other root crops like carrots and radishes.