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When to plant Beets in Washington County, MS

Beets planted in Washington County between February 20 and March 13 matures in 50–70 days — well before the November 15 first frost. A second sowing from September 6 to September 20 extends the harvest into fall.

When to Plant Beets in Washington County, MS

Beets

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.

Washington County, Mississippi is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 6 and the first fall frost is November 15, giving you a growing season of approximately 254 days.

At an elevation of 258 feet, Washington County receives approximately 55.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 90°F, providing good warmth for Beets during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Beets, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Beets root diseases.

Washington County, MS (Zone 8b) Long season
254 days
Last Spring Frost March 6
254 growing days
First Fall Frost November 15

Washington County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Clay Loam

Soil pH

6.0-7.0

Drainage

Well Drained

Beets Planting Timeline — Washington County, MS

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 6 Sep 6 – Sep 20

Plant 0.5" deep · 4" apart · Rows 12" apart

Month-by-Month Timeline

MonthActivities
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

Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A

🗺️ USDA Zone

Zone 8b

📆 Growing Season

254 days in Washington County

Growing Tips for Washington 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

  • Pole Beans
  • Mustard Greens

Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →

🌾 Save Your Own Beets Seeds
Life Cycle Biennial
Pollination Wind Pollinated
How to Collect Replant roots for 2nd-year seeds. Rub stalks to free clusters.
Storage Store airtight; viable 6 years at 35°F, under 50% humidity.

Isolate 1/2 mile from Swiss chard — same species, they will cross.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Beets in Washington County, MS?

Washington County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 6. Plan your Beets planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.

What planting zone is Washington County, MS?

Washington County, Mississippi is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 6 and first fall frost is November 15.

When should I plant Beets in Washington County, MS?

In Washington County, MS, plant Beets after the last frost (around March 6) and before the first frost (around November 15). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.

What growing zone is Washington County, MS for Beets?

Washington County sits in USDA Zone 8b. Beets grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.

Can Beets grow in Washington County's climate?

Yes — Beets grows well in Washington County's temperate climate. Washington County averages a 254-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 6 and first frost around November 15.

🌱

Your Washington County Garden Planner — Free

A 22-page printable planner built for Washington County (Zone 8b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.

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Data sources: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023), NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals. Frost dates are based on 50% probability averages for Washington County, MS. Local conditions may vary. Last updated: June 2026.

Sources & credits

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