When to Plant Beets in London, ON
Published: April 24, 2026 · Updated: April 27, 2026
Direct sow 3–4 weeks before last frost. Each beet seed is a cluster of 2–3 seeds — thin to 3 inches. Succession plant every 3 weeks through spring; also plant for fall harvest.
London's Canadian Zone 6a (USDA 5b) southwestern Ontario climate delivers adequate rainfall, warm summers, and 170 frost-free days. Shorter than Toronto's season but long enough for reliable production of most warm-season crops with appropriate variety selection.
Beets Planting Calendar for London
Direct sow outdoors: April 5–15
Harvest window: May 25 – June 14
Minimum soil temperature: 4°C (40°F)
Days to harvest: 50–70 days
Sun requirement: Full sun to partial shade
Fall crop planting: August 25–September 4 (harvest October 14)
⚠ Direct sow beets 3–4 weeks before last frost. Each beet seed cluster contains 2–3 seeds — thin to 3 inches. Succession plant every 3 weeks.
London Climate Notes
London has 150-170 frost-free days — adequate for most warm-season crops when transplants go in by late May. The region's rich soils support heavy feeders like tomatoes and brassicas with minimal amendment.
Growing Tips for Beets
- Soak beet seeds 4 hours before planting to soften the tough seed cluster and improve germination rates.
- Thin seedlings to 3 inches apart — crowded plants produce tiny woody roots rather than full-sized beets.
- Use thinnings as baby greens in salads; beet greens are more nutritious than the roots.
- Harvest when shoulders reach 1.5–3 inches wide; larger beets develop woody cores and bitter flavor.
Companion Planting in London
Pair beet with Onion, Garlic, Lettuce, Brassicas for mutual benefit. Avoid planting near Pole Bean, Mustard, which compete with or inhibit beet growth.
Pests and Problems to Watch in London
The most common pest and disease pressure on beets in London comes from Leaf Miner, Flea Beetle, Aphid, Cercospora Leaf Spot. Floating row covers through the first 4–6 weeks after planting block adult pests from laying eggs, and a weekly scouting routine catches infestations before they damage the crop.
Other Ontario Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I plant beet in London?
London's last spring frost is around May 3. Direct sow April 5–15.
What Canadian hardiness zone is London?
London is in Canadian Zone 6a (USDA equivalent 5b). The southwestern Ontario temperate climate delivers 170 frost-free days from May 3 to October 20, which shapes every planting date in the local calendar.
How long is London's growing season?
London has 170 frost-free days — from May 3 in spring to October 20 in fall. That is more than enough time to finish a full beet crop (50–70 days to maturity) before the first fall frost.
Can I grow beet in containers in London?
Yes. Container growing on balconies and decks is practical in London — choose a 5-gallon or larger dark-coloured container to warm the root zone, use a high-quality potting mix, and water daily during hot summer weather. In milder climates, containers extend both spring and fall windows by several weeks.
What is the first fall frost in London?
London's average first fall frost is October 20. For a fall beet crop, plant around August 25–September 4 so plants mature before the first killing frost.