Detroit Dark Red Beet (Beta vulgaris) is a classic heirloom variety known for its deep red roots and tender, sweet flavor. It is easy to grow, making it perfect for beginner and experienced gardeners alike. This beet thrives in cooler climates, making it a great choice for spring and fall gardens. Its vibrant roots and greens are prized for culinary uses, adding both flavor and color to dishes.
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All Nimble NiteCap Seeds are:
- Heirloom
- Organic
- Non-GMO
- Open Pollinated
- Untreated
- US Grown
- Growing instructions included
- Regular testing is conducted to uphold the highest germination standards, all the while employing appropriate seed storage techniques.
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- NimbleNitecap seeds are packed in eco-friendly, compostable seed packets. Seed packets are printed in-house with vegetable-based inks on biodegradable, recycled materials. (Small plastic bags are infrequently used to prevent the loss of very small seeds.)
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Common Names: Detroit Dark Red Beet
Latin Name: Beta vulgaris
Type: Root Vegetable
Life Cycle: Biennial (grown as an annual)
USDA Zones: 2 - 9
Stratification: Not Required
Germination Ease: Easy
Sunlight: Full Sun
Moisture: Consistently Moist
Soil: Well-drained, rich in organic matter
Height: 12-18 inches
Spread: 6-12 inches
Color: Deep red roots, green leaves with red veins
Bloom Season: N/A (grown for roots)
Companion Plants: Onions, Lettuce, Cabbage
Potential Toxicity: None
Climate Adaptability: Thrives in cooler weather
~ Sowing ~
When to Sow Outside:
Sow directly outdoors in early spring, 2-4 weeks before the last frost date. Can also be planted in late summer for a fall harvest.
When to Start Inside:
Not recommended; beets perform best when direct sown.
Days to Emerge:
7-14 days
Seed Depth:
Plant seeds 1/2 inch deep.
Seed Spacing:
Space seeds 1-2 inches apart, thin to 3-4 inches apart once seedlings emerge.
Row Spacing:
Rows should be spaced 12-18 inches apart.
Hardiness:
Frost-tolerant; can withstand light frosts.
~ Growing ~
Soil:
Detroit Dark Red Beet prefers well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter. It tolerates a range of soils but performs best in loose, sandy loam.
Watering:
Keep soil consistently moist, especially during root development. Avoid waterlogging.
Light and Temperature:
Thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Prefers cooler temperatures between 50°F and 75°F.
Maintenance:
Thin seedlings to ensure proper root development. Weeding is essential to avoid competition for nutrients.
Container Friendly:
Can be grown in containers, but choose a deep pot to accommodate root growth. Ensure the container has proper drainage.
~ Harvesting ~
When to Harvest:
Harvest roots when they reach 2-3 inches in diameter for best flavor. Larger roots may become woody.
How to Harvest:
Gently pull roots from the soil, being careful not to damage them.
Drying and Storing:
Roots can be stored in a cool, dark place for several weeks. Greens can be used fresh but do not store well.
Edible Use:
Both the roots and greens are edible. Roots are delicious roasted, boiled, or used in salads, while the greens can be steamed or sautéed.
~ Seed Saving ~
Seed Collection:
Allow beets to flower in their second year if saving seeds. Collect seeds once the seed heads have dried on the plant.
Seed Cleaning:
Remove seeds from the dried seed heads and allow them to air dry.
Seed Storage:
Store seeds in a cool, dry place. Seeds remain viable for 2-3 years if properly stored.
~ Additional Information ~
Forage for Pollinators:
Beet flowers attract bees and other pollinators when left to bloom in their second year.
Origin:
Detroit Dark Red Beet was introduced in the late 1800s and has been a staple in American gardens ever since.
Nomenclature:
Beta vulgaris is the botanical name for all beets and chard, derived from the Latin word for beet.
History:
This variety was developed in Detroit and became widely popular for its uniform, sweet roots and excellent storage qualities.
Potential Toxicity:
Non-toxic to humans and animals.
Climate Adaptability:
Well-suited to temperate climates and can tolerate light frosts, making it an ideal choice for spring and fall planting.
