When to plant Beets in Monterey County, CA
Monterey County gardeners should plant Beets between February 20 and March 13 in spring. With Monterey County's Zone 9b climate (last frost March 13), Beets needs 50–70 days to mature — plant by September 8 for a full harvest. A second sowing from September 22 to October 6 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Beets in Monterey County, CA
June in the garden — Monterey County, California
Here's what deserves your attention in Monterey County, California this month. Everything below is tailored to Zone 9b and timed around your local frost dates.
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.
Monterey County, California is in USDA Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is March 13 and the first fall frost is November 17, giving you a growing season of approximately 249 days.
At an elevation of 260 feet, Monterey County receives approximately 12.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 93°F, providing good warmth for Beets during the growing season. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Beets successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Monterey County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.7-7.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Beets
Beets needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Beets Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 2.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 2.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | 4.3" | 2.1" | 2.2" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Apr | 4.3" | 1" | 3.3" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| May | 4.3" | 0.3" | 4" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 0.1" | 4.2" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 0" | 4.3" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 0" | 4.3" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 0.1" | 4.2" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 0.5" | 3.8" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Nov | 4.3" | 1.2" | 3.1" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Dec | — | 1.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Monterey County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Beets Planting Timeline — Monterey County, CA
Beets Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | February 20 | Feb 20 – Mar 13 |
| Harvest | April 17 | Apr 17 – May 15 |
| Fall Sowing | September 22 | Sep 22 – Oct 6 |
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 | Fall Sowing |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
50–70 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 9b
📆 Growing Season
249 days in Monterey County
Growing Tips for Monterey 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
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
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 Monterey County, CA?
Monterey County is in Zone 9b 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 Monterey County, CA?
Monterey County, California is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is March 13 and first fall frost is November 17.
When should I plant Beets in Monterey County, CA?
In Monterey County, CA, plant Beets after the last frost (around March 13) and before the first frost (around November 17). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Monterey County, CA for Beets?
Monterey County sits in USDA Zone 9b. Beets grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Beets grow in Monterey County's climate?
Yes — Beets grows well in Monterey County's temperate climate. Monterey County averages a 249-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 13 and first frost around November 17.
Your Monterey County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Monterey County (Zone 9b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.