If you’re picking your own beets from a garden, you can wait until well into the cold season, even after the first frost, but your beets should be picked before the temperature goes down to 24 °F (−4 °C) at night. Put them somewhere cold immediately, rather than leaving them in the sun. [4] X Research source
Beet greens are edible, so you don’t have to throw them away. They can be prepared the same way as any other greens, for instance by sautéing. [7] X Research source The greens only last in fridge up for 2 or 3 days. [8] X Research source Since they rot more quickly, they should be stored separately from the roots.
If you do wash your beets at this point, make sure to dry them thoroughly before storing them. [10] X Research source
A bag also helps prevent any juices from staining your countertop or fridge.
If you’re going to use the beets within 5 days, you can leave them out at room temperature.
If they’re stored properly, your beets should last between 1 and 3 months in the fridge. [13] X Research source But it’s still best to check them from time to time to make sure they haven’t gone soft.
You can even pack the beets in peat moss, sand, or sawdust to help keep them fresh. The temperature where you’re storing your beets should be 32 to 40 °F (0 to 4 °C) and the humidity should be high (about 95%). [14] X Research source
