Q: On the back of some seed packages, a recommended soil temperature is listed. Is this an average soil temperature or a minimum soil temperature? I ask because I’ve planted several rows of beets and kept them watered well but none have sprouted. I’m curious to know if I planted them too early and they didn’t sprout because of the soil temperature.

A: I’d regard it as an average soil temperature. I think they need 65 degrees for several days to germinate successfully.