Detroit dark Red Beet was introduced in 1892, and this traditional favorite produces uniform medium sized 5-8 cm, (2-3") beets with dark red skins. Tasty, sweet and smooth it is a great storage beet that is also good for canning. The dark red roots grow easily and stay tender even when 10 cm, (4") across and larger. Plants grow to an average height of around 30-38 cm (12-15”) with a spread that is 25-30 cm (10-12”) wide.
Growing Instructions:
Direct sow seeds as soon as soil can be worked in the spring, and again in late summer for a fall crop. Select a location that receives full sun to partial shade. Sow seeds 1-2cm (½-1”) deep, spaced 5-10cm (2-4”) apart in rows spaced 30-45cm (12-18”) apart. Keep soil evenly moist to promote germination. Seeds should sprout in 7-14 days. Thin seedlings to 10-15cm (4-6”) apart when they are 5-7cm (2-3”) tall. Beets prefer well-drained soil that is fertile and has a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer before planting and again after thinning. Beets can be harvested when the roots are about 5cm (2”) in diameter, but they will continue to grow if left in the ground. Beets typically reach maturity in 55-70 days.
Soil Conditions: Well-drained soil that is fertile. Soil pH: 6.0-7.5 Planting Depth: Sow seeds 1-2cm (½-1”) deep. Germination: 7-14 days. Height at Maturity: 20-30cm (8-12”) tall. Days to Maturity: 55-70 days. Watering: Keep soil evenly moist. Sun/Shade: Full sun to partial shade. Spacing after Thinning: Thin seedlings to 10-15cm (4-6”) apart.