Ruby Queen Beet is a classic, deep-red heirloom variety prized for its smooth, round roots, tender texture, and sweet, earthy flavor. It matures quickly and performs well in a wide range of soils, making it perfect for beginner gardeners and root crop lovers alike.

Quick Facts

• Botanical name: Beta vulgaris

• Common name: Ruby Queen Beet

• Plant type: Cool-season biennial grown as annual

• Days to maturity: 55–60 days

• Root size: 2–3 inches round

• Sun exposure: Full sun to partial shade

• Hardiness zones: USDA 3–10

• Spacing: Thin to 2–3 inches apart in rows 12–18 inches apart

When to Plant

• Spring: Direct sow 2–4 weeks before the last frost.

• Fall: Sow 6–8 weeks before the first expected frost.

• Succession planting: Every 2–3 weeks for a continuous harvest.

• Germination time: 5–10 days at 60–75°F (16–24°C)

How to Plant

1. Soil preparation: Loose, well-draining soil enriched with compost. Avoid fresh manure.

2. Sowing depth: 1/2 inch deep; space seeds 1 inch apart.

3. Thinning: Once seedlings are 2 inches tall, thin to 2–3 inches apart (use thinnings as baby greens!).

4. Watering: Keep soil evenly moist to prevent tough roots and bolting.

Growing Tips

• Beets prefer cooler weather; heat may cause woody roots.

• Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

• For best color and flavor, harvest before roots exceed 3 inches.

• Leaves are edible and packed with nutrients — harvest young and tender for salads or sautéing.

Harvesting

• Roots are ready at 2–3 inches across but can be harvested smaller for baby beets.

• Loosen soil gently and pull by the base of the greens.

• Leaves can be harvested any time for fresh use.

Culinary Use

• Sweet, tender roots are excellent for roasting, boiling, steaming, pickling, or grating raw into salads.

• Leaves can be used like spinach — in sautés, soups, or smoothies.

• Known for uniform shape and classic deep red color — a favorite for home canning.

Companion Plants

Grows well with onions, lettuce, bush beans, and cabbage. Avoid planting near pole beans.

Why Grow Ruby Queen Beets?

Ruby Queen is a reliable, flavorful beet that’s ideal for fresh eating, preserving, and cooking. It grows well in most garden soils and provides a double harvest — both nutritious greens and richly colored roots.