Beetroot - Detroit Red

Beta vulgaris

Detroit Red Beetroot is a classic heirloom variety prized for its deep crimson roots and excellent flavour. This reliable and productive beet is a staple in vegetable gardens, known for its round, smooth, and medium-sized beets that are perfect for a wide range of culinary uses.

About Detroit Red Beetroot: Detroit Red seeds grow into robust plants that produce consistently sized beets with rich, earthy flavours. The roots are tender and sweet, ideal for both raw and cooked dishes. The green tops are also nutritious and can be used in salads or as a cooked green, offering dual-purpose gardening benefits.

Growing In Australia: Detroit Red Beetroot adapts well to various Australian climates. They prefer cooler temperatures but can grow in warmer conditions if provided with enough water. Plant in a spot with full sun to partial shade and in well-draining soil to encourage healthy growth. This variety is also known for its good resistance to disease, making it a hardy choice for home gardens.

Benefits and Uses: Detroit Red Beetroots are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with fibre, vitamins A and C, minerals, and antioxidants. They're versatile in the kitchen, perfect for roasting, boiling, pickling, or even using in smoothies and baked goods. The rich colour and sweet taste enhance any meal.

Planting and Care Tips: Sow Detroit Red Beetroot seeds directly in the garden from late winter to early summer. Plant them about 20 mm deep and space them roughly 10 cm apart, in rows 25 cm apart. Water regularly to maintain even soil moisture. Thinning seedlings is essential to allow for the development of full-sized beets.

65+ heirloom seeds

Sowing Information

Plant Type: Annual
Sow When: Temperate: July - April
                   Subtropical: All year
                   Tropical: March - June
Sow Where: Direct
Sow Depth: 20mm
Germination: 5-10 days 
Position: Full Sun
Plant Spacing: 10-20cm
Row Spacing: 25cm
Plant Height: 30cm
Harvest: 55-85 days

The image below will help you determine which climate zone you are in, and allow you to choose the best varieties for your area.

Martyman, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons