The aim of this research is to identify potential areas for autumn sugar beet cultivation in Golestan Province, Iran, based on temperature and precipitation parameters. Temperature (daily) and precipitation (annual) data from a 15-year statistical period (2006–2020) were analyzed using methods such as thermal potential diagrams, deviation from optimal conditions, phenology, and zoning of irrigation requirements based on annual rainfall. The results of the temperature evaluation using the thermal potential method, based on thermal thresholds of 0°C, 4°C, and 10°C, revealed that Inche Brun station has the highest cumulative thermal units, while Aliabad Katul station has the lowest. Analysis of the probability of late spring frost at the 95% confidence level showed that frost events occurring at the end of April in the central, eastern, northern, northeastern, and western parts of Golestan Province coincide with the phenological stages of root bulking and sugar accumulation in sugar beet. Based on the deviation from optimal conditions, Inche Brun station exhibited the lowest deviation (-20.64), indicating more favorable conditions for sugar beet cultivation. Phenological analysis identified Gonbadkavus, Bandar Turkman, Kalaleh, Inche Brun, and Bandar Gaz as the most suitable areas for autumn sugar beet cultivation in Golestan Province. Rainfall evaluations using the annual rainfall zoning map of Golestan Province indicated that, while there are no significant limitations in terms of rainfall and water supply for autumn sugar beet cultivation, the recent multi-year droughts necessitate additional irrigation to ensure optimal growth. In conclusion, this study highlights the potential for autumn sugar beet cultivation in specific areas of Golestan Province, taking into account thermal conditions, frost risks, and rainfall patterns. However, supplementary irrigation is recommended to address water shortages caused by prolonged droughts.
