Can I harvest beets after frost?
Written by
Nguyen Minh
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Beets are improved by light frost, which, in a few days, causes the conversion of starch into sugar; this is especially true if the temperature is between 32°F and 40°F. After 2 to 3 days, this development of sweetness occurs. A hard freeze, with temperatures under 28 degrees F., will injure their cellular structure and should be avoided; therefore, be careful to dig beets before the soil has become solidly frozen.
Beneficial Frost
- 32-40°F (0-4°C) for 2-3 consecutive nights
- Increases sugar content by 15-20%
- Doesn't damage root cells when gradual
Risky Conditions
- Temperatures below 28°F (-2°C)
- Soil freezing deeper than 1 inch
- Repeated freeze-thaw cycles
- Ice crystal formation in roots
Protection Methods
- Row covers: 4-6°F protection
- Mulch insulation: 6-inch straw layer
- Cold frames for extended harvest
- Harvest before predicted hard freeze
Be prepared for the frost season. Cover row crops when the forecast calls for near-freezing temperatures, typically around 35°F. In zones with wind chills below -20°F, heavier-weight fabric may be needed. You can use soil, rocks, or stones to help hold down the edges of the row covers. During the daytime, especially when the temperature exceeds 50°F, you will need to remove the covers to prevent crops from overheating.
Harvest carefully. Don't pull them till midday, when the ground has thawed a little. Twist them out of the wet earth, but don't pull them by the leaves, or you will break the frozen roots. Don't wash them, just shake them to remove the dirt; then cut the greens off, leaving the stalks about an inch long.
Frost-kissed Beets. These will keep longer than the others, but require more humidity. Store them in moist sand (95% humidity) at 32-34°F (0-1°C) for as long as possible to maximize storage life. Check for soft spots weekly; they tend to develop much faster.
Use the protective planting system next season. Take advantage of the hardy varieties, such as the Lutz Winter Keeper, and plant the ground ten weeks before the date of the first frost in your vicinity. Hill the soil over the shoulders before the cold weather is upon you. These beets will stand several light frosts and yet come into the house in fine condition.
Read the full article: When to Harvest Beets: 5 Essential Signs
