Seeds, Beets Detroit Supreme (West Coast Seeds)

Detroit Supreme beet seeds produce roots with minimal zoning (visible rings in cross section) even in hot weather. Detroit Supreme was bred to be mildew resistant for either processing or fresh market production. Because the roots are so uniform and dark, they look fabulous bunched for the market table. They are particularly nice for pickling, as the brine will turn a very dark red claret colour, and they stay tender but crunchy.

Matures in 65 days. (Open-pollinated seeds)

Exposure Full-sun or partial shade

Timing
Direct sow 4 weeks after last frost to mid-summer. Beets will not produce roots if planted when the soil is too cold. Seeds will germinate in 5-12 days, depending on soil temperature. Optimal soil temperature: 10-26°C (50-80°F).

Starting
Sow 1cm (½”) deep, 5-10cm (2-4″) apart in rows 30-45cm (12-18″) apart.

Companion Planting
Beets add minerals to the soil. The greens are very good for the compost. Plant with bush beans, Brassicas, corn, garlic, kohlrabi, leeks, lettuce, and mint. Add cut mint leaves as a mulch for beets. Avoid planting beets near pole beans, as the nitrogen fixed by the beans may encourage leafy beet growth and diminished root development.