Beetroot - Detroit Dark Red Vegetable Seeds (DDR), High-Yield Heirloom Variety

Beetroot - Detroit Dark Red (DDR) Seeds – Growing Guide

Key Attributes

Product Name: Beetroot - Detroit Dark Red (DDR) Seeds
Type: Heirloom, open-pollinated
Growth Habit: Root vegetable, bushy greens
Mature Size: 12-18 inches tall
Days to Maturity: 55-65 days
Root Characteristics: Deep red, globe-shaped, smooth skin
Flavor Profile: Sweet, earthy, and tender
Hardiness: Cool-season crop, frost-tolerant
Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade (6+ hours of sun recommended)
Soil Requirements: Well-drained, loose, fertile soil (pH 6.0-7.0), rich in organic matter
Uses: Fresh salads, roasting, pickling, juicing, and cooking greens

Planting Instructions

Direct Sowing (Recommended for Best Growth)

• Sow seeds outdoors 2-4 weeks before the last frost in spring or late summer for a fall crop.
• Plant seeds ½ inch deep, spaced 1 inch apart in rows 12-18 inches apart.
• Thin seedlings to 3-4 inches apart once they reach 2-3 inches tall to allow room for root development.

Indoor Sowing (For Early Start in Cold Climates)

• Start seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before the last frost in biodegradable pots.
• Transplant outdoors when seedlings have at least two sets of true leaves and soil temperatures are above 50°F (10°C).

Care & Maintenance

• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but avoid waterlogging. Deep watering encourages uniform root growth.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting and again mid-season if needed. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which promotes greens over roots.
• Mulching: Apply mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
• Succession Planting: Sow seeds every 2-3 weeks for a continuous harvest.

Harvesting

• Harvest beetroots when they reach 2-3 inches in diameter for best texture and sweetness.
• Young leaves can be harvested for salads without harming root growth.
• Store harvested beets in a cool, dry place or refrigerate for extended freshness.

Pest & Disease Control

• Common Pests: Aphids, leaf miners, and flea beetles—use neem oil or row covers.
• Common Diseases: Downy mildew and root rot—ensure good drainage and avoid overhead watering.