Beets require full sun for optimal growth and yield, and cool temperatures will result in the best red color in beets. Harvest beets about 50 to 70 days after planting. Beets should be harvested at 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter. Beets allowed to get larger than 2 inches in diameter may be woody. Storage of beets is similar to carrot storage conditions.
Late planting causes the most frequent problem in beets.
There are few insect or disease problems of beets in home gardens if they are planted at the proper time. Cercospora leaf spot is the most common disease that occurs on beets. Circular spots with reddish brown or purplish margins are the first signs. The most common insect pests of beets are aphids, leafminers, flea beetles and webworms. Sanitation and crop rotation should be practiced to avoid pest build-ups.