Beet ‘Detroit Dark Red’

Detroit Dark Red Beet: Smooth Roots and Sweet Flavor

Detroit Dark Red Beet (Beta vulgaris), offered by OSC Seeds

The ‘Detroit Dark Red’ beet, introduced in 1892, is a heritage favorite. Its deep-red globe-shaped roots have a smooth texture and small taproot. Known for its quick maturity, mildly earthy flavor, and low geosmin levels, its perfect for canning, freezing, or fresh eating.

Spread: Final spacing of 7 to 10 cm after thinning
Plant height: 30 to 45 cm (foliage)
Packet size: Approximately 450 seeds
Companion plants: Carrots, lettuce, onions
Incompatible plants: Spinach, potatoes

How to Grow:

Sow seeds 1.2 cm deep and 2.5 cm apart in rows spaced 30 to 45 cm. For continuous harvests, sow every two weeks once the soil reaches 7C until mid-July. Thin seedlings to 710 cm to allow proper root growth, and use thinned plants as tender greens. Avoid overwatering to prevent excessive foliage growth. Germination takes 8 to 10 days.

The ‘Detroit Dark Red’ beet is a must-have for gardeners, providing flavorful, uniform roots and tender leaves for a variety of culinary uses.