Florida · Garden vegetables

Beet season in Florida

Typically early December to late April, with peak early January through mid-March.

Hatched chalk = early and late shoulders; solid = peak.

A winter crop, mostly north and central Florida market farms.

At a glance

Early

From early December — first pickings, lighter supply, best prices come later.

Peak

early January through mid-March — full stalls, full flavor. This is the stretch to plan around.

Late

Through late April — quantity for preserving, and the stalls start dealing.

Season length

about 22 weeks end to end, shoulders included.

Beets

Look: Choose firm, round roots with smooth skin and bright, unwilted greens still attached.
Feel: Roots should feel hard all over with no soft spots, and the thin taproot tail should still be intact.
Smell: A clean, earthy smell is right — mustiness means the roots sat in storage too long.
Tip: Fresh tops are your freshness gauge — and they cook like chard, so take them home too.
Keeps: Twist off the tops and fridge roots in a bag — they hold two to three weeks or more.

Chasing the season?

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Frequently asked questions

When is beet season in Florida?

In Florida, the beet season typically runs early December to late April, with peak availability early January through mid-March. Exact weeks shift a little with each year's weather.

Can I pick my own beets in Florida?

Dig-your-own beets are uncommon — look for firm bunches with fresh tops at farmers markets. The best market weeks are early January through mid-March.

How long does beet season last in Florida?

about 22 weeks end to end — early December to late April. The early and late shoulders are real but lighter; the solid stretch of chalk on the band is the sure bet.