Harvest beets when they’re about the size of a golf ball, checking the shoulders that peek above the soil. Leave them unwashed and trim greens to half an inch before storing. Keep them in the fridge at 32–40°F in a sealed bag with some air removed, or layer them in damp sand for longer storage. For large amounts, use ventilated containers or insulated outdoor pits. You’ll find even more ways to preserve their freshness and flavor with a few extra steps.
Quick Guide
- Harvest beets when shoulders are visible and size matches a golf ball for peak freshness.
- Trim greens to ½ inch and store unwashed beets in dry, airtight containers in the fridge.
- Use slightly damp sand to layer beets in a breathable container for long-term storage.
- Maintain high humidity (90–100%) and near-freezing temperatures for bulk or extended storage.
- Freeze cooked, cooled, and sliced beets in airtight bags for up to 12 months.
Harvesting Beets at the Right Time
When should you pull beets from the ground? Check the days-to-maturity—most are ready in 55–70 days, but varieties like Babybeat mature in just 40.
Look for shoulders poking 3 inches above soil or reach golf-ball size.
Harvest smaller beets for tenderness, and water the night before to loosen soil. Store freshly pulled beets in the fridge in an airtight container, similar to fresh peas that keep best when chilled properly.
Avoid bolting by picking before extreme heat or frost.
Perform the shoulder test by gently clearing soil to feel the top of the beet, ensuring it’s slightly larger than a golf ball for best texture and flavor optimal harvest size.
Storing Beets in the Refrigerator
While your freshly harvested beets are still dry and unwashed, take a moment to prepare them properly so they’ll stay crisp and sweet in the fridge. Trim foliage to half an inch, gently rub off soil, and don’t cut the root end. Store in a single layer in gallon bags with air removed, or in airtight containers if cooked. Using a bin with a produce drain tray can help keep beets lifted above excess moisture for longer-lasting freshness. Keep them in the fridge’s crisper drawer, ideally between 32–40°F with high humidity. Poke small holes in bags to let moisture escape, stack flat, and avoid storing near other produce. Check monthly for soft spots or decay, and use affected beets first. For optimal freshness, maintain 90–95% humidity during refrigerated storage.
Long-Term Storage in Sand
Start by harvesting your beets on a dry day and trimming off the greens, then let the roots sit in the sun for a few hours to toughen up.
Once cured, place a layer of slightly damp sand in a sturdy container and set the beets on top, making sure they don’t touch each other.
Keep adding alternating layers of sand and beets, finishing with a thick sand layer or a folded towel to help control moisture.
For best results, use a food-grade, BPA-free container to reduce the risk of chemical leaching during long-term storage.
Preparing Beets for Sand Storage
Since proper preparation is key to keeping beets fresh through the winter, you’ll want to handle them with care right after harvest. Gently pull roots, avoiding bruises, then trim foliage to ½ inch above the crown.
Brush off loose dirt—don’t wash—and let them dry on the soil surface for a few hours on a dry day.
Store similar-sized, same-variety beets together.
Layering Beets in Moist Sand
Now that your beets are cleaned, trimmed, and ready, it’s time to pack them for long-term storage using moist sand. Start with a 1-inch sand layer in your container.
Gently press beets into the sand, not touching.
Cover completely with sand before adding another layer.
Repeat, finishing with a thicker sand layer on top.
Use a breathable cover to maintain humidity and prevent drying.
Bulk Storage for Large Harvests
If you’re handling a large beet harvest, consider using bulk storage methods like bunker, collar, or trench systems to keep your crop organized and accessible.
Arrange the beets in mounded rows with space between them for airflow, and make sure ventilation is strong to prevent spoilage.
Keep the storage area near 32°F with 90–100% humidity to maintain quality over several months.
For longer-term portions, using a countertop vacuum sealer with double heat seal can help maintain vacuum integrity during freezer storage and reduce freezer burn.
Mound With Ventilation Passages
When storing large beet harvests, building mounds with ventilation passages is a smart way to keep your crop in top condition.
Place ducts crosswise or lengthwise, spacing them 16 to 30 feet apart.
Piles should be 3–5 meters high, with fans inserted at duct ends.
Use temperature sensors and controls to run fans when needed, preventing heat buildup and spoilage.
Choose Suitable Storage Type
How do you keep hundreds of pounds of beets fresh for months? Use bulk storage methods customized to your space.
For large harvests, pack beets in perforated plastic bags in the fridge, layer them in moist sand in sealed containers, or form massive field clamps covered with tarps.
Each method controls moisture and temperature to prevent rot and freezing, keeping your beets firm and sweet for up to five months.
Maintain Ideal Conditions
Though storing large quantities of beets might seem intimidating, keeping them fresh for months comes down to controlling a few key factors: temperature, humidity, and airflow.
Keep beets at 0–2°C (32–36°F) with 98–100% humidity to prevent shriveling and rot.
Use ventilated piles or perforated bags, and guarantee cool, consistent air circulation to avoid spoilage and extend storage up to 10 months.
Container Storage Solutions
If you’re looking to keep your beets fresh for weeks or even months, choosing the right container storage solution makes all the difference. Use plastic bins with perforated bags to lock in moisture, or pack beets in damp sand or sawdust in sturdy boxes.
Opt for wooden crates, milk crates, or Rubbermaid totes with airflow holes. Always raise containers on pallets, and avoid pine or cedar to protect flavor.
For storing cooked or sliced beets, borosilicate glass containers resist stains and odors and can go from freezer to microwave with the lid removed.
Preserving Beets by Freezing and Pickling
Want to enjoy your garden’s bounty long after harvest? Freeze cooked beets by boiling, cooling, peeling, and slicing them before sealing in labeled bags.
For raw or blanched beets, freeze pieces on a tray first, then pack airtight.
Roast whole beets before freezing for richer flavor. Use within 12 months.
Pickled beets are typically canned, not frozen.
Wrapping Up
You’ve harvested your beets at the right time, and now you know how to keep them fresh. Whether you’re using the fridge, sand, or containers, each method works well for different needs. Freezing or pickling gives you tasty options later. Just remember to remove the greens and store them separately. With these tips, your beets stay crisp and ready whenever you need them.
