When to plant Beets in Union County, IA
Union County's spring Beets window runs April 9 through April 30. time plantings around the expected last-frost window for best survival. A second sowing from August 2 to August 16 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Beets in Union County, IA
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.
Union County, Iowa is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 23 and the first fall frost is October 11, giving you a growing season of approximately 171 days.
At an elevation of 1,311 feet, Union County receives approximately 39 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 83°F, so choose short-season varieties of Beets to ensure they mature before fall.
Union County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Beets Planting Timeline — Union County, IA
Beets Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | April 9 | Apr 9 – Apr 30 |
| Harvest | June 4 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 |
| Fall Sowing | August 2 | Aug 2 – Aug 16 |
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 | Harvest |
| 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
171 days in Union County
Growing Tips for Union 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 Union County, IA?
Union County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 23. Plan your Beets planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Union County, IA?
Union County, Iowa is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 23 and first fall frost is October 11.
When should I plant Beets in Union County, IA?
In Union County, IA, plant Beets after the last frost (around April 23) and before the first frost (around October 11). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Union County, IA for Beets?
Union 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 Union County's climate?
Yes — Beets grows well in Union County's temperate climate. Union County averages a 171-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 23 and first frost around October 11.
Your Union County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Union 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.