Touchstone Gold
50d to harvest
Sunlit and sweet, Touchstone Gold beets emerge in just about 50 days with a mellow, honeyed flavor and a tender, fine-grained bite. The roots form attractive, smooth globes in warm golden tones, holding their color beautifully for roasting, steaming, and fresh slicing, as well as vibrant pickles and golden-hued sauces. A standout for gardeners who want both beauty in the bed and a naturally mellow sweetness on the table.
Crop Dates
Growing note: In frost-free Zone 13b, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Start Indoors | — |
| Climate | Frost-Free Climate |
| Transplant / Sow Outdoors | Oct 1st |
| Harvest Begins | Nov 20th |
| Harvest Ends | Feb 28th |
Crop Details
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 50 |
| Sun Requirements | Full Sun |
| Growth Habit | Taproot |
| Support Needed | None |
| Planting Depth | Normal |
| Germination Temp (°F) | 55 |
| Min Soil Temp (°F) | 40 |
| Min Night Temp (°F) | 28 |
| Harden Off (days) | Not Required |
Recommended Companions
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my beets (Beta vulgaris) turning dark or getting leaf spots, and what can I do?
Beet growers commonly see Cercospora leaf spot, which starts as small brown spots with lighter centers and can spread fast in humid weather. Remove badly infected leaves, improve airflow (thin plants to about 3–4 in apart), and water at the soil line instead of wetting foliage. If the problem persists, spray with a labeled fungicide appropriate for edible roots/leafy beet (follow the product’s pre-harvest interval).
How often should I water beets during their main growing phase, and what soil moisture should I keep?
From sprouting through bulking (about weeks 3–7), keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy—aim for roughly 1 in of water per week, adjusting for heat and rainfall. Water deeply when the top 1 in of soil dries out, because uneven moisture can lead to small, woody roots or cracking. Avoid frequent light sprinkling that leaves the root zone dry between irrigations.