When Are Beetroots Ready To Pick

Beetroots are ready to pick when they reach about 1 to 3 inches in diameter, typically 55 to 70 days after sowing seeds.
 
If you’ve been wondering when are beetroots ready to pick, the answer really comes down to size and timing, not just the days on a calendar.
 
Knowing when are beetroots ready to pick is key, because leaving them in the ground too long makes them woody and tough, while picking too early gives you tiny, less flavorful roots.
 
In this post, we’ll dig into the signs that tell you when are beetroots ready to pick, how to check them properly, and tips for harvesting beetroots so you enjoy the sweetest, most tender crop possible.
 
Let’s get into the dirt and find out.
 

When Are Beetroots Ready To Pick? The Main Signals

The most reliable way to know when are beetroots ready to pick is to check the size of the root peeking above the soil.
 
Beetroots push their shoulders out of the ground as they mature, so you can see a good portion of the bulb without digging.
 
When that visible part reaches about the size of a golf ball to a tennis ball, that’s your first clue.
 
For baby beets, you can pick them when they’re as small as 1 inch across, which is perfect for salads and pickling.
 
For storage and roasting, wait until they hit 2 to 3 inches, as this is the sweet spot for flavor and texture.
 

Days to Maturity as a Guideline for When Are Beetroots Ready To Pick

Your seed packet is your friend here, because it tells you the expected days to maturity.
 
Most beet varieties are ready to pick between 55 and 70 days from planting, though some fast-growing types can be harvested in as little as 45 days.
 
Check the packet for your specific variety, and then mark your calendar.
 
But remember, that’s just an estimate because weather, soil quality, and water all influence growth speed.
 
If you planted in cool spring soil, beets may take a bit longer, while warm weather can speed things up.
 
So use days as a starting point, but always double-check with the physical signs.
 

The Shoulder Test: A Simple Way to Confirm When Are Beetroots Ready To Pick

Brush away a little soil around the top of the beetroot to expose the shoulder, which is the part where the root meets the leaves.
 
If the shoulder is at least 1 inch wide, your beetroots are ready to pick for baby size.
 
If it’s closer to 2 to 3 inches wide, they’re perfect for full-sized harvest.
 
This soil brush test is way more accurate than guessing by leaf size, since leaves can be huge even when roots are small.
 
Just gently push the soil aside with your fingers, have a look, and then cover it back up if they need more time.
 

Firmness and Feel: Another Sign When Are Beetroots Ready To Pick

Another great indicator is the firmness of the root itself.
 
When beetroots are ready to pick, they feel solid and dense when you gently squeeze them through the soil.
 
If they feel soft or spongy, they may be overripe or starting to rot, so pick them right away.
 
If they feel rock hard and small, they likely need more time to bulk up.
 
You can also check the taproot, which is the thin tail at the bottom, it should feel sturdy, not wilted.
 

Best Practices for Harvesting Beetroots Once They’re Ready To Pick

Once you’ve confirmed when are beetroots ready to pick, the actual harvesting process is pretty straightforward.
 
Water the soil a day before you plan to harvest, as moist soil makes pulling easier and reduces root damage.
 
Then grab the beet by its greens near the base and give it a gentle, steady tug.
 
If it doesn’t come out easily, use a garden fork to loosen the soil around it, being careful not to stab the root.
 
After harvesting beetroots, twist off the leaves, leaving about an inch of stem to prevent bleeding and moisture loss.
 
Don’t wash them until you’re ready to use or store them, since excess moisture speeds up spoilage.
 

What Happens If You Leave Beetroots in the Ground Too Long?

If you miss the window for when are beetroots ready to pick, the roots will keep growing, but they’ll become woody and fibrous.
 
That’s because the plant starts putting energy into flowering and seed production instead of tender root growth.
 
The skin may also crack or split, which invites pests and rot.
 
So don’t wait too long, especially in hot weather, because mature beets can quickly turn tough and bitter.
 
It’s always better to pick them a little early than a little late.
 

Can You Harvest Beetroots in Stages?

Absolutely, and this is a smart way to enjoy fresh beets over several weeks.
 
You can start picking baby beets when they’re about 1 inch across, which thins the row and gives the remaining plants more room to grow.
 
Then, come back a week later and pick a few more that have reached 2 inches.
 
This staggered approach means you’re always harvesting beetroots at their prime, rather than dealing with a glut all at once.
 
Just make sure you don’t disturb the roots of the ones you’re leaving in the ground.
 

So, When Are Beetroots Ready To Pick? The Final Answer

Beetroots are ready to pick when they reach 1 to 3 inches in diameter, usually 55 to 70 days after sowing, and when their shoulders pop above the soil line.
 
The best way to know for sure is to check the size, feel for firmness, and use your seed packet’s days to maturity as a rough guide.
 
Harvesting beetroots at the right time gives you sweet, tender roots that are perfect for roasting, pickling, or eating raw.
 
So now that you know when are beetroots ready to pick, get out there and check your garden.
 
Your perfect beets are waiting, and they won’t stay perfect for long.
 
Happy harvesting.