Intercropping, the practice of growing two or more crops in close proximity, is a gardening method used to maximize space and leverage beneficial plant relationships. Companion planting theory suggests that pairing certain plants can lead to mutual benefits, such as improved soil health, pest control, or more efficient use of resources. Understanding the biological interaction between peas and beets is the first step toward a successful combined harvest.
The Compatibility Verdict
Peas and beets are compatible companion plants due to their complementary growth habits and differing nutritional needs. Peas are legumes whose roots host Rhizobium bacteria, converting atmospheric nitrogen into a plant-usable form. This nitrogen fixation benefits the soil, which is helpful for subsequent crops or heavy feeders.
Beets are heavy feeders that require significant soil nutrients, but they do not compete directly with peas for above-ground resources. The beet plant grows a subterranean taproot, while the pea is a vining plant with a relatively shallow root system. This difference in root depth allows both plants to exploit different soil layers for water and nutrients, reducing direct root competition. Beets also help loosen the soil as their roots expand, which improves water absorption and aeration for nearby pea roots.
Managing Resource Competition
Planting the two crops close together introduces potential competition for shared resources that must be managed. Beets have a high demand for potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium, which are essential for developing the fleshy root. If the soil is not sufficiently rich, developing beetroots can rapidly deplete these shared mineral resources, potentially impacting the pea’s growth, especially if the pea’s root system is not fully established.
To mitigate nutrient conflicts, preparing the soil with a balanced amendment before planting is advisable. Incorporating well-aged compost or a low-nitrogen fertilizer higher in phosphorus and potassium supports the beet’s development without over-fertilizing the pea.
Crowding is another conflict, as the beet’s size is determined by the available space. Planting beet seeds slightly closer than recommended is possible, but thinning the beet seedlings early is necessary. This ensures enough space for the remaining roots to mature without physically entangling the pea roots.
Practical Planting and Spacing
The success of this intercropping arrangement relies on precise logistics and timing, since both are cool-season crops. Peas should be planted early in the spring as soon as the soil is workable, with beet seeds sown alongside them or shortly after. This simultaneous growth allows the pea vines to establish themselves vertically while the beetroots begin to develop below the soil surface.
For optimal yield and light exposure, plant the peas in a row or block and position the beets in a separate, parallel row. If using a trellis, the pea row should be placed on the north side of the beet row to prevent shading. Recommended spacing is 12 to 18 inches between the pea row and the beet row, allowing adequate canopy space.
The pea plants will also require a trellis or support structure, which keeps their foliage high and ensures sunlight reaches the beet leaves for root development. The typical harvesting sequence involves picking the peas first, often in late spring or early summer, while the beets continue to mature underground later in the season.