When to Plant Beets in Pike 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.
Pike County, Mississippi is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 13 and the first fall frost is November 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 248 days.
At an elevation of 325 feet, Pike County receives approximately 49.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 95°F, so Beets may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Beets, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot.
Pike County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.3
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 — Pike County, MS
Beets Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | February 27 | Feb 27 – Mar 20 |
| Fall Sowing | September 7 | Sep 7 – Sep 21 |
| Harvest | April 24 | Apr 24 – May 22 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 4" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Direct Sow |
| 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
248 days
Growing Tips for Pike 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 Pike County, MS?
Pike County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 13. Plan your Beets planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Pike County, MS?
Pike County, Mississippi is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 13 and first fall frost is November 16.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Pike County gardeners in Zone 8a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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