Beets
What to look for
- Smooth and firm
- Uniform in color
- 1 ½ -3 inches in diameter
What you don’t want
- Misshapen
- Rough or broken skin
- Oversized
- Insect/disease damage
How to prepare the beets
- Trim tops to 1 ½ -2 inches
- Leave up to 2 inches of tap root
- To remove soil either brush or soak and gently wash in cold water
Suggested exhibit quantity
- State Fair: 3 specimens
- County Fair: check your fair book
Watch the video and learn what a judge looks for when judging beets.
ISU Publications
*Check out the many publications available at the bottom of the Vegetable Main Page!
Potential problems
Small/misshapen root if soil is compacted
Holes in root from rodents or wireworms/beet worms
Leaf spot
Aphids


