When to plant Beets in Flathead County, MT
In Flathead County, plant Beets in spring between May 20 and June 10, once soil temps hold above 50°F. Flathead County's last frost averages June 3, so time plantings around the expected last-frost window for best survival. For a fall crop, sow between July 2 and July 16 — roughly 50–70 days before the first frost on September 10.
When to Plant Beets in Flathead County, MT
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.
Flathead County, Montana is in USDA Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is June 3 and the first fall frost is September 10, giving you a growing season of approximately 99 days.
At an elevation of 6,233 feet, Flathead County receives approximately 20.7 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 87°F, providing good warmth for Beets during the growing season.
Flathead County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.6-8.4
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 | — | 1.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 1.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | — | 2.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| May | — | 2.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Jun | 4.3" | 1.5" | 2.8" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 1.5" | 2.8" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 2.1" | 2.2" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 1.5" | 2.8" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Oct | — | 1.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Nov | — | 1.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 1.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Jun–Sep in Flathead County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Beets Planting Timeline — Flathead County, MT
Beets Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | May 20 | May 20 – Jun 10 |
| Harvest | July 15 | Jul 15 – Aug 12 |
| Fall Sowing | July 2 | Jul 2 – Jul 16 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 4" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Direct Sow |
| June | Direct Sow |
| July | Fall Sowing Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| 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 5a
📆 Growing Season
99 days in Flathead County
Growing Tips for Flathead 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 Flathead County, MT?
Flathead County is in Zone 5a with an average last frost of June 3. Plan your Beets planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Flathead County, MT?
Flathead County, Montana is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is June 3 and first fall frost is September 10.
When should I plant Beets in Flathead County, MT?
In Flathead County, MT, plant Beets after the last frost (around June 3) and before the first frost (around September 10). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Flathead County, MT for Beets?
Flathead County sits in USDA Zone 5a. Beets grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Beets grow in Flathead County's climate?
Yes — Beets grows well in Flathead County's temperate climate. Flathead County averages a 99-day frost-free season, with last frost around June 3 and first frost around September 10.
Your Flathead County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Flathead County (Zone 5a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.