Counting Days Before Root Harvest

Question: I planted carrots and beets in the late fall. When should I harvest them?

D.C., SANTA ANA

Answer: Carrots and beets are root crops that can usually be harvested from 60 to 90 days after sowing seed.

You can harvest and use root crops as soon as they are large enough to eat. Root crops are best when picked young, because they are more likely to be tender and sweet at that stage.

Carrots and beets can last in the ground for quite a while but will turn woody if left lingering too long.

When harvesting carrots, beets and other root crops, gently dislodge them from the soil and pull up with care to avoid disturbing neighboring vegetables. For continuous crops of carrots and beets, sow seed every month.

Have a problem in your yard? University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE) Master Gardeners are here to help. These trained and certified horticultural volunteers are dedicated to extending scientifically accurate information to the public about home horticulture and pest management. They are involved with a variety of outreach programs, including the UCCE Master Garden hotline, which provides answers to specific questions. You can reach the hotline at (714) 708-1646 or send e-mail to ucmastergardeners@yahoo.com. Calls and e-mail are checked daily and are generally returned within two to three days. Please include your name and city of residence.