Detroit Dark Red Beets are an heirloom variety cherished for their vibrant color, sweet flavor, and versatility in the kitchen. First introduced in 1892, these beets have become a garden favorite for their ease of growth and excellent storage qualities. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a beginner, this guide will help you successfully grow and harvest Detroit Dark Red Beets in your own garden.
Why Grow Detroit Dark Red Beets?
- Heirloom Variety: Passed down through generations, these beets are open-pollinated and have retained their original qualities, making them a reliable choice for gardeners
- Vibrant Color: The deep, blood-red roots and medium green tops with tinges of red make these beets a visually appealing addition to any garden.
- Versatility: These beets are perfect for canning, roasting, pickling, and even eating raw. The greens can be harvested early for salads, providing a two-in-one crop.
Planting Detroit Dark Red Beets
When to Plant: Sow seeds directly outdoors 4 weeks before the last expected frost. For a continuous harvest, plant seeds every 2-3 weeks throughout the growing season.
- Seed Preparation: To improve germination, soak the seeds in water for 2 hours before planting
- Soil Preparation: Beets thrive in well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Add compost or well-rotted manure to the soil before planting.
- Sowing: Plant seeds 1/2" deep and 2" apart in rows spaced 12-24" apart. Tamp down the soil gently over the seeds to ensure good contact.
- Companion Planting: Detroit Dark Red Beets grow well alongside bush beans, onions, and members of the cabbage family. Avoid planting them near pole beans.
Growing Conditions
- Sunlight: Beets require full sun to grow well, so choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.
- Thinning: Since beet seeds often contain multiple embryos, you’ll need to thin the seedlings to 3" apart once they’ve sprouted. The thinned plants can be transplanted to another area for a second crop.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Beets need regular watering, especially during dry spells, to develop tender roots.
- Temperature: Beets prefer cooler weather and can survive temperatures as low as 25°F.
Harvesting Detroit Dark Red Beets
- When to Harvest: For the best flavor and tenderness, harvest beets when they are between 1" and 3" in diameter, approximately 58 days after planting.
- Harvesting Tips: Gently pull the beets from the soil and twist off the tops about 1" above the root. This prevents the beets from bleeding and helps them store longer.
- Storing Beets: Detroit Dark Red Beets keep well for later use. Store them in a cool, dark place, and they’ll last for several weeks.
Using Beet Greens
Don’t forget about the greens! The tops can be harvested as early as 40 days after planting. You can harvest up to one-third of the tops at a time without harming the plant, providing a continuous supply of fresh salad greens.
Seed Saving
- Isolation: To save seeds, ensure that your beets are isolated from other beet and chard varieties by at least two miles to prevent cross-pollination.
- Overwintering: Beets are biennials and need to overwinter to produce seeds. In warmer climates, mulch the plants to protect them. In cooler areas, dig up the roots and store them in sand in a cool, humid place until spring.
- Collecting Seeds: In the spring, replant the roots, and the plants will soon go to seed. Once the seed heads are fully dry, remove them and store the seeds in a cool, dry place for up to five years.
Benefits of Composting with HVO Compost Starter™ for Detroit Dark Red Beetroot
HVO Compost Starter™ enriches your compost and accelerates decomposition, leading to healthier, more vibrant Detroit Dark Red beets.
Key Benefits:
- Enriched Soil: Adds 34 essential nutrients to your compost, supporting robust beetroot growth.
- Sustainable Gardening: Reduces the need for chemical fertilizers, promoting eco-friendly practices.
- Improved Growth: Enhances nutrient uptake and root development for sweeter, more flavorful beets.
Boosting Growth with Hawaiian Bokashi Inoculant™
Hawaiian Bokashi Inoculant™ introduces beneficial microbes to your soil, making it ideal for nurturing Detroit Dark Red beetroot.
- Soil Transformation: Improves texture and moisture retention, crucial for even root development.
- Nutrient Boost: Converts nutrients into plant-accessible forms, resulting in richer, more nutritious beets.
- Root Power: Stimulates strong root growth for healthier, more productive plants.
Enhancing Resilience with HVO Beneficial Microbial Inoculant Liquid Concentrate™ Foliar Spray
HVO Beneficial Microbial Inoculant Liquid Concentrate™ supports beetroot plants with beneficial microbes, improving overall health and yield.
- Enhanced Soil Vitality: Enriches soil with essential minerals, contributing to the growth of robust, well-formed beets.
- Versatile Use: Ideal for various gardening needs, from foliar feeding to soil enrichment.
For optimal Detroit Dark Red beetroot growth, integrate HVO Compost Starter™, Hawaiian Bokashi Inoculant™, and HVO Beneficial Microbial Inoculant Liquid Concentrate™ into your gardening routine. Visit Hawaiian Volcanic Organic for more tips and connect with us on social media. Click here to learn more.
Conclusion
Detroit Dark Red Beets are a rewarding crop that offers delicious roots and nutritious greens. With their rich history and dependable performance, they’re a must-have for any vegetable garden. Follow this guide, and you’ll enjoy a bountiful harvest of these beautiful and tasty beets!