When to Plant Beets in Clarke County, MS
Beets are a dual-purpose root vegetable with edible roots and nutritious greens. They come in red, golden, and striped varieties and are rich in vitamins and minerals.
Clarke County, Mississippi is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 15 and the first fall frost is November 12, giving you a growing season of approximately 242 days.
At an elevation of 252 feet, Clarke County receives approximately 56.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 92°F, providing good warmth for Beets during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Beets, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Beets root diseases.
Clarke County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.4-6.5
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Beets Planting Timeline — Clarke County, MS
Beets Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | March 1 | Mar 1 – Mar 22 |
| Fall Sowing | September 3 | Sep 3 – Sep 17 |
| Harvest | April 26 | Apr 26 – May 24 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 4" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Direct Sow |
| April | Harvest |
| May | Harvest |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | Fall Sowing |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
50–70 days
Soil pH
6 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 8a
Growing Season
242 days
Growing Tips for Clarke County
Soak seeds overnight before planting to improve germination. Thin seedlings to 3-4 inches apart. Harvest roots when 1.5-3 inches in diameter for best texture.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Isolate 1/2 mile from Swiss chard — same species, they will cross.
Beets in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Beets in Clarke County, MS?
Clarke County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 15. Plan your Beets planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Clarke County, MS?
Clarke County, Mississippi is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 15 and first fall frost is November 12.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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