Maine · Garden vegetables

Beet season in Maine

Typically early July to late October, with peak mid-July through late September.

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

At a glance

Early

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

Peak

mid-July through late September — full stalls, full flavor. This is the stretch to plan around.

Late

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

Season length

about 17 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 Maine?

In Maine, the beet season typically runs early July to late October, with peak availability mid-July through late September. Exact weeks shift a little with each year's weather.

Can I pick my own beets in Maine?

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

How long does beet season last in Maine?

about 17 weeks end to end — early July to late October. The early and late shoulders are real but lighter; the solid stretch of chalk on the band is the sure bet.