Beets
In season here from July through October.
In season in SW Michigan
In season
Months from the MSU Extension seasonal availability guide. Weather shifts dates a little each year.
Key nutrients
Per ½ cup slices, boiled · 85 g
| Nutrient | Amount | %DV | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 37 | ||
| Carbohydrate | 8.5 g | 3% | |
| Fiber | 1.7 g | 6% | |
| Vitamin A | 1.7 mcg | 0% | |
| Vitamin C | 3.1 mg | 3% | |
| Potassium | 259 mg | 6% | |
| Folate | 68 mcg | 17% | |
| Manganese | 0.28 mg | 12% |
FDC ID 169146 · Beets, cooked, boiled, drained (SR Legacy)
%DV uses FDA Daily Values for adults and children 4+. Values are USDA lab averages scaled to the serving; your harvest may differ.
Wellness
Half a cup of cooked beets has about 37 calories, 68 mcg of folate (17% DV) and 0.28 mg of manganese (12% DV). That makes it a good source of folate and manganese. (USDA) The NIH Office of Dietary Supplements says folate is needed to make DNA and other genetic material, and for cells to divide. (NIH ODS) NIH ODS also says the body uses manganese to make energy and protect cells from damage, and needs it for strong bones and a healthy immune system. (NIH ODS)
Pick, store and use
- Pick
Skip beets bigger than 3 inches across. (MSU Extension)
- Store
Trim the stems to 2 inches above the beet and leave the root on. Refrigerate in a plastic bag for 7–10 days. (MSU Extension)
- Use
Leaving the root and a bit of stem on while cooking keeps the color from bleeding. (MSU Extension)
Where to get it nearby
No farm in our directory lists beets by name yet. Many farm markets carry more than their listing says, so it's worth asking.
Sources: USDA FoodData Central, FDC ID 169146 · FDA Daily Values · NIH ODS: Folate · NIH ODS: Manganese · MSU Extension Michigan Fresh: Beets · MSU Extension seasonal availability guide · Farm list: Farm to Table Growers research (2026).