When to plant Beets in Putnam County, IL
In Putnam County, plant Beets in spring between April 7 and April 28, once soil temps hold above 50°F. Putnam County's last frost averages April 21, so time plantings around the expected last-frost window for best survival. For a fall crop, sow between August 4 and August 18 — roughly 50–70 days before the first frost on October 13.
When to Plant Beets in Putnam 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.
Putnam County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 21 and the first fall frost is October 13, giving you a growing season of approximately 175 days.
At an elevation of 582 feet, Putnam County receives approximately 41.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 87°F, providing good warmth for Beets during the growing season.
Putnam County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6-6.7
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 | — | 1.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 3.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3.6" | 0.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 4.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 4.3" | 5.2" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 4.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3.3" | 1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3.3" | 1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 3.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 2.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Putnam County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Beets Planting Timeline — Putnam County, IL
Beets Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | April 7 | Apr 7 – Apr 28 |
| Harvest | June 2 | Jun 2 – Jun 30 |
| Fall Sowing | August 4 | Aug 4 – Aug 18 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 4" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| 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 5b
📆 Growing Season
175 days in Putnam County
Growing Tips for Putnam 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 Putnam County, IL?
Putnam County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 21. Plan your Beets planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Putnam County, IL?
Putnam County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 21 and first fall frost is October 13.
When should I plant Beets in Putnam County, IL?
In Putnam County, IL, plant Beets after the last frost (around April 21) and before the first frost (around October 13). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Putnam County, IL for Beets?
Putnam County sits in USDA Zone 5b. Beets grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Beets grow in Putnam County's climate?
Yes — Beets grows well in Putnam County's temperate climate. Putnam County averages a 175-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 21 and first frost around October 13.
Your Putnam County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Putnam County (Zone 5b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.