Beetroot Detroit is an early globe-rooted variety with smooth round roots and deep red, sweet, tender flesh. The most reliable beetroot you can grow in Ireland. Sow from March to July, harvest from June onwards. Almost impossible to get wrong.
Fine texture and juicy consistency. Roast it, boil it, pickle it, or grate it raw into salads. The leaves are edible too, used like spinach. One packet gives you enough roots to last the season.
ðą Sowing information
Sow from late March to June in fine, stoneâfree soil. Make shallow drills 2 cm deep and 30 cm apart; sow seeds 3â5 cm apart, cover lightly and water. For earliest crops, use cloches or fleece. Preâsoaking seeds can speed germination.
âïļ Light exposure
Prefers full sun but tolerates light partial shade. In Ireland, a bright, wellâdrained bed ensures good root shape and colour.
ð§ Water needs
Keep soil evenly moist, especially during germination. Avoid drought followed by heavy watering to prevent splitting. Mulching helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.
ðĄïļ Germination temperature & time
Germinates at 7â10 °C, usually emerging in 7â14 days. LateâMarch sowings typically match suitable soil conditions.
ð Plant spacing & final size
Thin seedlings to 8â10 cm apart, with 25â30 cm between rows. This spacing supports uniform, wellâcoloured roots.
ðž Harvesting notes
Harvest baby beets at golfâball size or allow to reach 5â7 cm for fuller roots. Lift gently, twist off leaves to reduce bleeding, and store in a cool, dark place or process promptly.
Bullet Technical Data
âĒ ðą Sowing depth: 2 cm
âĒ ð
Planting months (Ireland): Marchâend June
âĒ âïļ Light: Full sun to light partial shade
âĒ ðĄïļ Germination: 7â14 days at 7â10 °C
âĒ ð Plant height: 25â40 cm foliage; 5â7 cm roots
âĒ ðŠī Spacing: 8â10 cm plants; 25â30 cm rows
âĒ âģ Days to maturity: 50â70 days
âĒ ð§Š Seeds per packet: approx. 480





