Can You Grow Beets in Aquaponics?

If you’ve ever wondered, “Can you grow beets in aquaponics?”, the short answer is, yes! While leafy greens like lettuce and herbs tend to dominate most aquaponic systems, root vegetables like beets can also thrive with the right setup and care. 

Growing beets in aquaponics might sound tricky due to their need for space to develop underground bulbs. But with the proper system, especially a media bed aquaponics setup, these nutrient-packed veggies can flourish just as well as any surface crop.

In this blog, we will break down everything you need to know about how to grow beets in aquaponics systems. You’ll learn which systems work best for aquaponic beets, how to manage nutrient requirements, choose the right grow media, and avoid common problems that come with growing root crops in aquaponics. Whether you're just getting started with aquaponic gardening or looking to diversify your existing setup, this blog will help you harvest delicious, homegrown beets the smart and sustainable way.

How Aquaponic Systems Support Beet Growth

Aquaponics combines aquaculture (raising fish) and hydroponics (growing plants without soil) to create a closed-loop system where fish waste provides organic nutrients for plant growth. Beets, like other root crops, can benefit from:

• Consistent access to water and nutrients, which supports uniform root development
  
• Fewer pests and soil-borne diseases compared to traditional gardening
  
• Cleaner produce, since beets aren't grown in soil
  
• Controlled growing environment, allowing you to optimize temperature, pH, and light
  

However, not all aquaponic systems are ideal for root vegetables. Beets require space for their roots to expand and firm support to anchor their bulbs, conditions best met in a media bed system.

Aquaponics vs. Traditional Soil Gardening for Beets

 

While traditional gardening may allow beets to grow deeper and more naturally shaped, aquaponics offers more control and sustainability, especially in urban or indoor environments. With the right approach, aquaponic beets can be just as flavorful and nutritious as those grown in soil, if not more.

Why Grow Beets in Aquaponics?

Growing beets in aquaponics is a rewarding way to combine sustainability with homegrown nutrition. While most growers associate aquaponics with leafy greens like lettuce or basil, root crops like beets are increasingly gaining popularity, especially for those looking to expand the variety of crops grown in a soilless, controlled environment.

The Benefits of Growing Aquaponic Beets

1. Faster Growth Cycle

In aquaponics, plants receive a continuous supply of water and nutrients, allowing them to grow faster than in soil. Beets, which typically take 60–70 days to mature in soil, can often be harvested in as little as 50 days in a well-optimized aquaponic system. This is due to:

• Constant nutrient availability from fish waste
  
• Optimal oxygenation in the root zone
  
• Controlled temperature and pH levels
  

2. Water Efficiency

Aquaponics uses up to 90% less water than traditional soil gardening. Water in the system is recirculated, meaning there's very little waste. This is especially important when growing root crops like beets, which require consistent moisture to form healthy, round bulbs.

3. Cleaner Produce

Beets grown in aquaponics aren’t exposed to soil, which means:

• Less washing and scrubbing during harvest
  
• Lower risk of contamination from soil-borne pathogens or pollutants
  
• No need for synthetic fertilizers or pesticides
  

This makes aquaponic beets a great choice for home gardeners, health-conscious consumers, or small-scale commercial growers targeting clean, organic-like produce.

Best Aquaponics System for Growing Beets

When it comes to growing beets in aquaponics, system choice is critical. Not all aquaponic designs are suitable for root crops, especially those that require depth and stable support for bulb development. To grow healthy, uniform beets, you’ll need a system that allows for both vertical root growth and a stable grow media that won’t impede bulb formation.

1. Media Based Aquaponics: The Best Choice for Beets

Media based systems  are by far the most suitable aquaponics system for growing beets and other root vegetables. In this setup, plants are grown in a container filled with inert grow media (like clay pebbles or lava rock), and the water is periodically flooded and drained.

Why media beds work for beets:

• Root stability: The media supports the beets as they grow downward and outward.
  
• Depth: Media beds can be built deep enough (typically 12 inches or more) to allow room for beets to fully form.
  
• Nutrient retention: Grow media can hold beneficial bacteria and nutrients, ensuring roots get everything they need.
  
• Versatility:Supports a wide variety of plants, making it easier to companion plant or rotate crops.
  

This method also mimics soil conditions more closely than other aquaponic systems, making it ideal for root crops like beets, carrots, or radishes.

2. Choosing the Right Grow Media for Beets

Your choice of grow media directly affects how well your beets will grow in an aquaponics system. The right media will support root development, provide excellent drainage, and help prevent compaction.

Recommended Grow Media Types:

• Expanded Clay Pebbles (Hydroton):
  
  
• Lightweight, reusable, and pH-neutral
  
• Excellent drainage and aeration
  
• Easy to work with when harvesting root vegetables
  
  
• Lava Rock:
  
  
• Affordable and natural
  
• High surface area for beneficial bacteria
  
• Heavier than clay pebbles but very stable
  

Avoid fine or dense materials like sand, or small gravel, as they can compact and prevent bulb development.

3. Media Bed Depth and Plant Spacing Tips

To grow beets successfully:

• Use media beds at least 12 inches deep to accommodate root expansion
  
• Space beets 4–6 inches apart, depending on the variety
  
• Keep planting rows 12 inches apart to ensure airflow and easy maintenance
  
• Use net cups or transplant plugs during early growth stages to minimize root damage

A Step-by-Step Guide onHow to Grow Beets in Aquaponics

Below is a step-by-step guide that answers the core question: how do you grow beets in aquaponics systems?

1. Choosing the Right Beet Varieties

Not all beet varieties are created equal when it comes to aquaponic systems. Since space in grow beds is limited, it's essential to choose compact, fast-maturing varieties that are well-suited to container-like conditions.

Best Beet Varieties for Aquaponics:

• Detroit Dark Red: A classic, dependable beet with smooth, round roots.
• Chioggia: An heirloom variety with red and white candy-striped rings; grows well in confined spaces.
  
• Early Wonder: Quick to mature and produces tender greens alongside a decent root bulb.
  
• Bull’s Blood: Popular for both its edible greens and small, flavorful roots.
  

Smaller beet varieties tend to perform better in aquaponics systems because they require less depth and are less likely to suffer from root deformities.

2. Planting and Spacing Tips

Proper planting techniques are key to growing uniform, healthy aquaponic beets. Beets can be grown from seed, but starting them in plugs or rockwool cubes helps reduce transplant shock and improves germination success.

Germination Guidelines:

• Soak beet seeds in water for 12–24 hours to soften seed coats
  
• Germinate in a warm, moist environment (ideal temperature: 70–75°F)
  
• Expect sprouting in 5–10 days
  

Direct Seeding vs Seedling Plugs:

• Seedling plugs or starter trays are recommended to give young plants a stable start before transplanting to grow beds.
• Direct seeding is possible but can be inconsistent in aquaponics media beds due to washout or uneven media surfaces.
  

Spacing Tips for Root Development:

• Space plants 4 to 6 inches apart
  
• Rows should be at least 12 inches apart
  
• Thin seedlings early to prevent overcrowding and allow full bulb formation
  

3. Beets Nutrient Requirements in Aquaponics

Healthy beets depend on balanced nutrition, especially for root development. In aquaponics, nutrients are derived from fish waste, so it’s important to understand what your plants (and fish) need.

Key Nutrients for Beets:

• Potassium(K): Essential for root development and sugar accumulation
  
• Phosphorus(P): Stimulates strong root growth
  
• Iron (Fe): Vital for chlorophyll production and healthy leaf growth
  

Tip:A deficiency in potassium or phosphorus will lead to small, fibrous roots and poor yields.

Monitoring Nutrient & pH Levels:

• Ideal pH: 6.4 to 7.0
• Regularly test water for nutrient levels and supplement with aquaponic-safe mineral additives if needed
  
• Add iron chelate (Fe-EDDHA) if leaf yellowing is observed
  

Fish Waste Management:

• Choose fish like tilapia or trout, which produce nutrient-rich waste
  
• Maintain a healthy biofilter to ensure nutrient conversion from ammonia to nitrate (nitrification)
  

4. Temperature and Lighting Needs

Beets are cool-season crops that perform best under specific temperature and lighting conditions.While aquaponics allows for year-round growing, you'll need to simulate optimal environmental conditions indoors or in greenhouses.

Ideal Temperature Range:

• 60–70°F (15–21°C) is optimal for root formation
  
• Avoid temperatures above 75°F, which may lead to bolting or poor bulb development
  

Light Requirements:

• Beets require 12–16 hours of light daily for steady growth
  
• Indoors or during winter, use full-spectrum LED grow lights to supplement natural light
  
• Position lights 6–12 inches above plants, adjusting as they grow
  

5. Harvesting Beets in Aquaponics

Beets are typically ready to harvest between 50 and 70 days, depending on the variety and growing conditions. Proper timing ensures sweet, tender roots and vibrant greens.

Signs Your Beets Are Ready to Harvest:

• Bulbs are visible above the media surface, about 2–3 inches in diameter
  
• Greens are mature and fully formed
  
• Outer leaves may begin to yellow slightly, indicating root maturity
  

How to Harvest Without Damaging Your Media Bed:

• Use gentle twisting or pull the beets upward by the greens
  
• Loosen the media around the base to prevent disturbing nearby plants
  
• Rinse off media particles and roots with clean water
  

Tip: Beet greens are fully edible and can be harvested selectively before full root maturity!

Common Challenges in Growing Beets in Aquaponics and How to Solve Them

Here are the most common challenges to watch for when growing aquaponics beets, and how to prevent or solve them.

1. Root Rot and Waterlogging

Root rot is a major concern when growing root vegetables in any soilless or hydroponic environment, and aquaponics is no exception. It occurs when roots are deprived of oxygen and sit in overly wet conditions for extended periods.

Prevention Tips:

• Maintain high oxygen levels in the root zone by ensuring proper water circulation and aeration in your grow bed.
  
• Use a media based system with flood-and-drain cycles, which allows roots to breathe between irrigations.
  
• Avoid clogging by routinely removing dead plant material and checking for compacted media that blocks drainage.
  
• Use high-quality grow media like expanded clay pebbles, which encourage airflow and drainage around the root zone.
  

Beets affected by root rot may appear stunted, have mushy or discolored roots, and show yellowing of leaves.

2. Nutrient Deficiencies

Aquaponic systems depend on fish waste and microbial activity to convert ammonia into plant-available nutrients. While this is usually sufficient for leafy greens, beets require higher levels of certain nutrients, particularly for root development.

Common Symptoms and Solutions:

• Potassium deficiency: Wilting or scorched leaf edges; stunted root development. Supplement with potassium sulfate (aquaponics-safe)
  
• Phosphorus deficiency: Dark or purplish leaves; poor root growth. Add bone meal (pre-composted) or rock phosphate
  
• Iron deficiency:Yellowing between leaf veins (chlorosis). Use chelated iron (Fe-EDDHA) for best uptake in higher pH systems
  

Natural Supplement Sources:

• Crushed eggshells (calcium)
  
• Banana peels (potassium)
  
• Seaweed extract (micronutrients)
  
• Worm tea or compost tea (if pre-filtered and safe for fish)
  

 Always test water before supplementing and monitor pH, as it affects nutrient uptake. Ideal pH range for beets: 6.4–7.0

3. Pests and Algae

Even in a soilless system, pests and algae can find their way in and affect plant health. While aquaponic systems typically face fewer pest problems than soil gardens, vigilance is key.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for Aquaponics:

• Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs to control aphids
  
• Use neem oil sprays carefully, only on leaves, and avoid contamination in water
  
• Remove dead leaves or diseased plants quickly to prevent infestations
• Avoid chemical pesticides, as they can harm fish and beneficial bacteria.

Algae Management Tips:

• Cover exposed water surfaces to reduce light penetration (algae need light to thrive)
• Clean and scrub grow beds and plumbing regularly
  
• Avoid nutrient imbalances, especially excess phosphorus, which can encourage algae growth
  
• Use UV filters or filters with fine mesh to reduce algae spores in recirculating systems
  

While a little algae is normal, excessive growth can compete with beets for nutrients and oxygen, leading to poor yields and water quality issues.

FAQs About Growing Beets in Aquaponics

Whether you're just starting out or already growing other crops, you might have a few lingering questions about cultivating beets in aquaponics systems. Here are the most frequently asked questions, with clear, direct answers to guide your growing journey.

1. Can You Grow Other Root Crops in Aquaponics?

Yes, you can grow a variety of root vegetables in aquaponics, but some perform better than others depending on system design and grow bed depth.

Root crops that grow well in aquaponics include:

• Radishes:Quick to mature and tolerate shallow beds
  
• Turnips:Similar to beets in size and growth habit
  
• Carrots: Prefer deep beds and loose media; go for short or stubby varieties
  
• Garlic and onions:Possible with patience and careful nutrient management
  

Tip: Stick with compact or fast-maturing varieties, and use media beds at least 12 inches deep for best results with root crops.

2. What Is the Best Fish for a Root Vegetable System?

The  best fish for an aquaponics system focused on root crops like beets are those that:

• Produce high levels of waste (nutrient-rich)
  
• Thrive in moderate water temperatures
  
• Are hardy and easy to care for
  

Top fish choices:

• Tilapia: Fast-growing, hardy, and produce ample nutrients
  
• Trout:  Great for cooler climates; high waste output
  
• Goldfish: Low-maintenance for smaller systems
  
• Catfish: Tolerant of variable water conditions and provide good nutrient loads

3. How Long Does It Take to Grow Beets Aquaponically?

Beets typically take 50 to 70 days to reach full maturity in an aquaponics system, depending on the variety and growing conditions.

Factors that influence growth time:

• Water temperature: Ideal range: 60–70°F
• Nutrient availability: Ensure adequate potassium and phosphorus
  
• Lighting: Provide 12–16 hours of light per day
  
• Spacing: Crowded plants take longer to mature and form smaller bulbs
  

Many aquaponic growers report faster growth compared to soil gardens, thanks to consistent nutrient delivery and controlled conditions.

4. Can You Grow Beets in Vertical Aquaponics Systems?

Growing beets in vertical systems is not recommended, primarily because:

• Beets require horizontal and vertical space to form proper root bulbs
  
• Most vertical towers and NFT (Nutrient Film Technique) systems lack sufficient depth and structural support
  
• Roots can become compressed or misshapen in confined channels
  

Vertical aquaponics is better suited to leafy greens and herbs like lettuce, spinach, and basil.

Conclusion: Start Growing Beets in Your Aquaponics System Today!

Growing beets in aquaponics is a rewarding and sustainable way to produce fresh, nutrient-packed vegetables right from your own home or garden. By choosing the right varieties, maintaining optimal conditions, and staying proactive with nutrient and environmental management, you can enjoy a bountiful beet harvest in no time.

Whether you're new to aquaponics or an experienced grower, don’t hesitate to experiment with different beet varieties and growing methods to find the best fit for your system. The beauty of aquaponics is that it’s adaptable, allowing you to continuously learn and  improve.