The beet, or beetroot as it is known in Europe thrives in all parts of Canada and the USA. Since pests and diseases are not major concerns and they can be grown in a fairly wide range of garden soils, it is relatively easy to grow. Beets are rather cold-hardy and do not like hot, dry weather, so it is best to plant them in the early spring (frost will not harm the seedlings) or in late summer for a fall harvest. Beets are grown both for their greens which are wonderful steamed and full of vitamins or traditionally for their roots to be cooked or pickled.