Beet, Detroit Dark Red
55 days. This old home garden and market variety is deservedly the most popular all-purpose red beet, with uniform and smooth, blood red roots that are sweet and tasty. The 14-inch tops make good greens, especially in the baby stage. Growers have depended on this vigorous variety since it was introduced with much excitement by the D.M. Ferry seed company in 1892. A look back at the original listing shows an exuberant half page ad dedicated to their favorite new beet with “the most perfectly shaped and smoothest roots.” Growers are still smitten with this variety over 100 years after its introduction.
- 55 Days
- Full Sun
- Sprouts in 14-21 Days
- Seed Depth: 1/2"
- Ideal Temperature: 50-85 F
- Plant Spacing: 4-6"
- Frost Hardy: Yes
- Beta vulgaris
Growing Tips: Amend planting site with well-rotted compost, work soil deeply, and remove rocks. Sow 3-4 weeks before last frost. Thin early for best results. Requires neutral to slightly alkaline soil.