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Detroit Dark Red Beets are an excellent heirloom variety that form 2 to 5 inch globe shaped beetroots that display a wonderful, rich, blood-red color. It is one of the most popular beet varieties; sought after for its tolerance to cold and warm temperatures and ease of growing, this is a great variety for beginner and master gardeners alike. The bulbous beet root is very sweet and tender, making them a culinary asset. The green tops can also be eaten for a boost of nutrition or added color to any dish! This seed can also be used to grow microgreens.
NAME: Beet or ‘Beetroot’ (Beta vulgaris)
VARIETY: Detroit Dark Red
DAYS TO MATURITY: 55 – 60 days
POLLINATION: Open Pollinated
TYPE: Annual
HARDINESS ZONE: Zones 2 – 10
SUNLIGHT: Full Sun / Mild Shade
SOIL: Fertile, loose soil with pH between 6.0 – 7.0
PLANT HEIGHT: 8 – 14 inches
SPACING: 3 – 4 inches apart
TEMP: 40 – 85°F
These seeds do not required stratification.
To learn more about Stratification, click here!
While Detroit Dark Red Beets can technically be started indoors, it’s generally not recommended. Beet roots can be sensitive to transplanting, and starting them indoors can increase the risk of transplant shock. It’s best to sow seeds directly outdoors.
To start seeds indoors, fill seed trays or small pots with a high-quality, well-draining seed-starting mix. 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area.
Sow the Detroit Dark Red Beet seeds ½ inch deep in the soil, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Place the seed trays in a location with plenty of sunlight or under grow lights.
Beets germinate best in cooler temperatures around 50-75°F (10-24°C).
Seeds typically germinate within 5-10 days.
Once the seedlings have developed several sets of true leaves and the threat of frost has passed, transplant them outdoors in prepared garden beds
Directly sow seeds outdoors in early spring, about 2-4 weeks before the last expected frost date.
Sow the seeds ½ inch deep and space them 2-3 inches apart in rows spaced about 12-18 inches apart into your prepared garden bed.
Keep the soil consistently moist until germination, which typically occurs within 5-10 days.
Thin seedlings to about 4-6 inches apart once they have developed their first true leaves to allow for proper root development.
Choose a location with well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. Prepare the planting area by loosening the soil to a depth of at least 6 inches and removing any debris or weeds.
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged throughout the growing season. Beets prefer even moisture to prevent cracking and promote steady growth.
Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weed growth.
Fertilize lightly with a balanced fertilizer or compost tea when seedlings are established and again when they reach about 4-6 inches in height.
Once they emerge and the foliage greens get to be 3 inches tall, thin the seedlings out to 3 inches apart; this will allow space for the beetroots to develop into a sizable bulb
Monitor for pests such as aphids, leaf miners, and flea beetles, and treat as needed with organic pest control methods.
You may also plant these seeds in large, deep containers outside; these instructions would still apply
Harvest after 50 to 60 days by gently gripping the entire foliage of the beetroot and pulling upwards.; use a small spade if foliage separates from the beetroot
Trim the tops of the beets, leaving about 1 inch of stem attached, and rinse off any soil.
Store harvested beets in a cool, dark place with high humidity to prolong their shelf life.
