The Beet Detroit Dark Red stands as a time-tested heirloom variety prized by gardeners for its exceptional culinary and nutritional qualities. This classic cultivar produces globe-shaped roots with deep crimson flesh and distinctive dark red skin, delivering a naturally sweet flavor profile that intensifies when roasted or pickled. Beyond the roots themselves, the tender greens are equally valuable — rich in vitamins and minerals, they make an excellent addition to salads and cooked dishes. Detroit Dark Red performs reliably across diverse growing conditions and matures in approximately 55–70 days, making it suitable for both spring and fall plantings.

Germination Rate: 88%. Test Date: 12/25. OSI.

Texas Minimum Germination Rate: 65%.

Why Choose Beet Detroit Dark Red?

• Heirloom Seed: Passed down through generations for at least 75 years for reliable harvests and authentic flavor.
• Non-GMO Seeds: Plants whose DNA structure has not been altered in ways that do not occur naturally through traditional breeding methods.
• Deep Crimson Roots: Striking dark red skin and flesh with a naturally sweet flavor that intensifies when roasted or pickled.
• Dual Harvest: Enjoy both the deep crimson roots and the nutritious leafy greens — two crops from a single planting.
• Versatile in the Kitchen: Excellent roasted, pickled, boiled, juiced, or eaten raw — one of the most versatile vegetables in the garden.
• Easy to Grow: Forgiving of small mistakes — a great choice for beginner and experienced gardeners alike.

Planting Tips for Success

• When to Plant: Direct sow in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked, or in late summer for a fall harvest. Beets prefer cool growing conditions.
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade — at least 4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• Soil: Loose, well-draining soil free of rocks and debris. Heavy or compacted soil can cause misshapen roots.
• Planting Depth: Sow seeds ½ inch deep directly in the garden. Beet seeds are seed clusters — multiple seedlings may emerge from each one.
• Spacing: Plant seeds 1–2 inches apart in rows 12–18 inches apart. Thin seedlings to 3–4 inches apart once established — thinning is essential for well-developed roots.
• Watering: Water consistently, about 1 inch per week. Even moisture prevents cracking and promotes smooth, uniform root development.
• Support: No staking needed — beet tops are low-growing and self-supporting.
• Fertilizing: A balanced fertilizer low in nitrogen encourages strong root development. Excess nitrogen promotes lush tops at the expense of roots.
• Harvesting: Harvest roots at 1.5–3 inches in diameter (55–70 days) for best flavor and tenderness. Young greens can be harvested anytime once established.

Why Choose David's Garden Seeds®?

• Veteran-Owned: Supplying premium seeds since 2009.
• GO TEXAN Certified: Supporting local agriculture and communities.
• Integrity Pledge: David's Garden Seeds has taken the Seed Integrity Pledge.
• Great Customer Service: David answers all customer service questions. Usually within a few minutes.
• Vegetable Seed License: David's Garden Seeds has been granted a Vegetable Seed License for the State of Texas.

Cooking Methods

• Roasting: Wrap whole beets in foil and roast at 400°F for 45–60 minutes — roasting intensifies their natural sweetness beautifully.
• Pickling: Detroit Dark Red is a classic pickling beet — slice and pickle in vinegar brine for a tangy, vibrant preserve.
• Boiling: Boil whole beets 30–45 minutes until tender, then peel and slice for salads or side dishes.
• Raw/Shredded: Grate raw beets into slaws, salads, or grain bowls for a sweet, earthy crunch.
• Juicing: Blend or juice raw beets for a nutrient-dense, naturally sweet beverage.
• Beet Greens: Sauté young beet greens in olive oil with garlic — they cook like Swiss chard and are equally nutritious.

Order Detroit Dark Red Beet Seeds Today

Add this classic heirloom beet to your garden and enjoy crimson roots and nutritious greens from spring through fall.

Nutritional Information

Per 1 cup (136g) cooked beets (harvested roots, not planting seeds):

• Calories: 75
• Total Fat: 0.3g (0% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 131mg (6% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrates: 17g (6% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 3.4g (12% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 13g
• Protein: 2.9g
• Folate: 136mcg (34% Daily Value)
• Manganese: 0.4mg (22% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 518mg (11% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 6.7mg (7% Daily Value)

Important Disclosures

• Variety Disclaimer: Heirloom varieties may exhibit natural variation in size, color, and maturation. Results may vary based on growing conditions, climate, and gardening practices.
• Seed Storage: Store seeds in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight. Properly stored beet seeds remain viable for 3–4 years.
• Planting Zones: Detroit Dark Red beets thrive in USDA Hardiness Zones 2–10. Best planted in cool weather — spring and fall are ideal in most regions.

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