Beetroot Detroit Dark Red - 10 Seeds

Detroit Dark Red Beetroot is a popular variety of beet known for its deep, vibrant red color and sweet flavor. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to grow and care for Detroit Dark Red beetroot:

Characteristics of Detroit Dark Red Beetroot

Color: Deep red, often with a rich purple interior.

Size: Medium-sized beets, typically around 2-3 inches in diameter.

Flavor: Sweet and earthy, making them excellent for salads, soups, and pickling.

Uses: Can be eaten raw, roasted, steamed, or pickled.

Growing Detroit Dark Red Beetroot

Timing

Planting Season: Sow seeds in early spring, about 2-4 weeks before the last frost date. In warmer climates, they can also be planted in late summer for a fall harvest.

Site Selection

Sunlight: Choose a location that receives full sun (6-8 hours of sunlight per day).

Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter. A pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal.

Soil Preparation

Tilling: Loosen the soil to a depth of about 30 cm to accommodate the beetroots.

Amending: Mix in compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility and structure.

Sowing Seeds

Planting Depth: Sow seeds about 3 - 5 cm deep.

Spacing: Space seeds about 3 - 7 cm apart in rows that are 45 cm apart. After germination, thin seedlings to about 5 - 9 cm apart for optimal growth.

Watering

Irrigation: Beets need consistent moisture, especially during germination and growth. Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid waterlogging.

Amount: Aim for about 3 of water per week, either from rainfall or irrigation.

Fertilization

Feeding: A balanced fertilizer can be applied at planting time. Avoid excessive nitrogen, as this can lead to more leaf growth than root development.

Pest and Disease Management

Common Pests: Watch out for aphids, leaf miners, and root maggots. Hand-picking and organic insecticides can help manage these pests.

Disease Prevention: Practice crop rotation and maintain good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.

Harvesting

Timing: Beets can be harvested once they reach the desired size, usually 50-60 days after planting. Younger beets are more tender and flavorful.

Method: Gently pull or dig up the beets, being careful not to damage the roots.

Storing

Fresh Use: Beets can be stored in the refrigerator for a few weeks.

Long-term Storage: For longer storage, they can be cooked and then frozen or pickled.

Additional Tips

Companion Planting: Beets grow well with onions, garlic, and brassicas (like cabbage and kale) but may struggle with pole beans and sunflowers.

Succession Planting: For a continuous harvest, consider sowing seeds every 2-3 weeks until mid-summer.