'Detroit Dark Red' Beetroot
identification
description
Organic 'Detroit Dark Red' beetroot (Beta vulgaris) from McKenzie seed company, a versatile heirloom variety with a rich, earthy taste
The 'Detroit Dark Red' beetroot is one of the most prized and reliable heirloom varieties , renowned for its intense dark red flesh , fine, tender texture , and deeply earthy flavor . The roots are round, uniform, and well-formed , remaining soft and non-fibrous throughout, even at maturity. The vigorous foliage produces edible tops , excellent in salads or stir-fries.
This mid-early maturing variety is particularly versatile in the kitchen . It is equally suitable for fresh consumption , freezing , canning , or pickling , where it excels. Renowned for its high yield , good storage qualities , and slow bolting , it is a top choice for gardeners seeking a productive and consistent beet. The crop is safe for bees and beneficial to pollinators.
Companion plants: Brassicaceae, Bush bean, Cabbage, Garlic, Lettuce, Onion, Kohlrabi
Nefarious plants: Pole beans
Spread/Habit: Round root, upright foliage
Foliage height: 30 to 45 cm
Seed producer: McKenzie
Seed type: Heirloom
Physical type of seed: Seeds
Quantity per packet: Approximately 300 to 325 seeds
Special features: Dark red flesh, slow bolting, high yield, excellent storage, edible leaves
Root color: Dark red
Texture/flavor: Tender flesh, fine grain, rich earthy taste
Climate tolerance: Tolerates heat, heavy soils, and light frosts
Farming method
Beets are a cool-season crop and should be sown directly outdoors as soon as the soil can be worked in spring. The optimal soil temperature for germination is between 10 and 29°C . Sow at a depth of 1.3 cm , then gently firm the soil to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. Cover with fine soil and water lightly.
Keep the soil consistently moist , but not waterlogged, throughout germination, which usually takes 10 to 12 days . When the seedlings are a few centimeters tall and have 2 to 3 pairs of leaves , thin them out to a spacing of about 8 cm between plants, with rows spaced 30 cm apart.
Carry out successive sowings every 2 to 3 weeks until mid-July to ensure a continuous harvest.
Beetroot prefers full sun exposure (level 3) and regular watering , equivalent to 2.5 to 5 cm of water per week .
Harvesting and preservation
Harvesting typically begins 50 to 60 days after sowing , but beets can be harvested at all stages . Young, golf ball -sized roots are particularly tender, while full-sized roots are ideal for processing. The beet greens can be harvested as needed.
Harvest before a hard frost . Store the roots at 0°C , with a relative humidity of around 95% and good air circulation. To prevent bleeding, it is recommended to remove the skin after cooking ; it will peel off easily once the roots have cooled.
Usage ideas
• Pickled beets
• Roasting, boiling or steaming
• Storage and freezing
• Salads and hot dishes
• Using the tops in cooking
McKenzie's 'Detroit Dark Red' beetroot is a reliable choice for the vegetable garden , combining hardiness , rich flavor , and exceptional culinary versatility . A well-rounded heirloom variety, it's ideal for gardeners who want to produce consistently high-quality beets, season after season.
