When to plant Beets in Marion County, IL
Plant Beets in Marion County from March 27 to April 17 in spring. Marion County sits in USDA Zone 6b, with last frost around April 10 and first frost on October 19. A second sowing from August 10 to August 24 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Beets in Marion County, IL
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.
Marion County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 10 and the first fall frost is October 19, giving you a growing season of approximately 192 days.
At an elevation of 964 feet, Marion County receives approximately 40.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 89°F, providing good warmth for Beets during the growing season.
Marion County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.1-7
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 | — | 1.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 2.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3.4" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 4.3" | 5.2" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 3.8" | 0.5" | 💧 Light watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 4.7" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3.3" | 1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3.3" | 1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 3.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 2.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Marion County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Beets Planting Timeline — Marion County, IL
Beets Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | March 27 | Mar 27 – Apr 17 |
| Harvest | May 22 | May 22 – Jun 19 |
| Fall Sowing | August 10 | Aug 10 – Aug 24 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 4" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Direct Sow |
| April | Direct Sow |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| 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 6b
📆 Growing Season
192 days in Marion County
Growing Tips for Marion 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 Marion County, IL?
Marion County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 10. Plan your Beets planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Marion County, IL?
Marion County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 10 and first fall frost is October 19.
When should I plant Beets in Marion County, IL?
In Marion County, IL, plant Beets after the last frost (around April 10) and before the first frost (around October 19). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Marion County, IL for Beets?
Marion County sits in USDA Zone 6b. Beets grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Beets grow in Marion County's climate?
Yes — Beets grows well in Marion County's temperate climate. Marion County averages a 192-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 10 and first frost around October 19.
Your Marion County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Marion County (Zone 6b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.