The Eastern Field
Beetroot 'Detroit Dark Red' Seedlings
Beetroot 'Detroit Dark Red' Seedlings
Beetroot ‘Detroit Dark Red’ is a classic heritage variety that forms smooth, round, deep crimson roots with a tender, sweet, and earthy flavour that is well suited for fresh use, roasting, boiling, and pickling.
6 seedlings per bundle
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Delivery & Returns
Delivery & Returns
Delivery
Orders ship within New Zealand via NZ Post. Live plants and organisms are processed on Monday and are dispatched on Tuesday, so orders must be placed by Sunday night. Non-perishable items are processed Monday–Friday, usually within 1–2 business days.
Collection
Click & Collect is available at the Tauranga Farmers Market from 7:45 AM–12:00 PM during operating seasons. Orders are processed on Friday, so they must be placed by Thursday night. Please bring your order confirmation for collection. Orders must be collected during the scheduled time; uncollected perishable items may not be held or refunded.
Returns
Live plants and organisms cannot be returned or exchanged due to a change of mind. Any issues will be assessed on a case-by-case basis under the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993.
Non-perishable items may be returned if they are faulty or not as described. Approved returns should be sent promptly in the original packaging with proof of purchase. Return shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer unless otherwise required by law.
Additional Information
Delivery times are estimates and may vary due to weekends, public holidays, or unforeseen delays. For full details, see the Shipping Policy and Refund Policy.
Beetroot 'Detroit Dark Red' Variety Overview
Beetroot Detroit Dark Red is a popular and dependable heritage variety, renowned for its deep red roots and rich, sweet flavour. Developed in Ontario, Canada in the late 19th century from Early Blood Turnip selections, this heirloom beetroot was refined for improved root shape, colour, and eating quality.
Plants produce smooth, round roots with burgundy-coloured skin and rich red flesh, topped with broad green leaves and red stems. The roots are firm and crisp, with a naturally sweet flavour that becomes more earthy as they mature.
Detroit Dark Red beetroot is highly versatile in the kitchen, perfect for juicing, fresh in salads, steaming, boiling, roasting, frying, or pickling. The edible leaves are also nutritious and can be harvested young for salads or cooked like spinach.
Beetroot is a nutrient-dense, low-calorie vegetable valued for supporting cardiovascular health and overall wellbeing. The roots provide dietary fibre, folate, potassium, and antioxidants that support digestion and healthy blood pressure, while the leafy tops are rich in vitamins A and C, iron, and calcium to support immune function, energy production, and bone health.
Beetroot Detroit Dark Red grows reliably in cool to mild climates from early spring through late autumn. Once established, plants tolerate light frosts and continue producing steadily, making this variety a dependable choice for gardeners of all experience levels.
Plant Information
| Botanical Name | Beta vulgaris |
| Life Cycle | Biennial, grown as an annual |
| Primary Use | Culinary |
| Edible Parts | Roots and leaves |
| Planting Season | Early spring to late autumn |
| Climate Hardiness | Cold hardy and frost tolerant |
| Light & Position | Full sun to partial shade |
| Soil & Nutrition | Fertile and well-draining soil |
| Plant Spacing | 10 cm on centre |
| Plant Height | Approximately 40 cm tall |
| Days to Maturity | 25–35 days from transplant |
| Support Structure | Not required |
| Succession Planting | Transplant every 2–3 weeks |
How to Grow Beetroot 'Detroit Dark Red'
Beetroot grows best in the cooler parts of the year and can be transplanted from early spring through until late autumn when soil and air temperatures are between 10–25°C. In mild climates, they can be grown almost year-round, while in colder regions they are best planted from September to April, avoiding periods of heavy frost. Once established, beetroot tolerate frosts but should be protected from extreme summer heat, which can slow growth and affect root quality.
Beetroot thrives in full sun to partial shade throughout the year. Full sun in spring and autumn maximises light exposure, encouraging strong, steady growth and evenly shaped roots. Partial shade in summer helps moderate temperature, protecting plants from heat stress that can slow growth, reduce sweetness, or trigger premature bolting. Choose a well-ventilated, open site and avoid waterlogged areas to reduce disease and support healthy, vigorous growth.
Beetroot is a light feeder, growing best in moderately fertile, well-drained soil that is loose and free of stones to allow roots to develop evenly. Apply organic compost, aged manure, or a balanced fertiliser before planting to provide nutrients throughout its growth. Avoid high nitrogen, which promotes leafy growth over roots, while ensuring adequate potassium and phosphorus and a slightly acidic to neutral soil, with an ideal pH of 6.0–7.0 for optimal nutrient availability and growth.
Beetroot requires consistent moisture to promote even root development and prevent stress, particularly during establishment. Uneven watering can lead to tough, woody, or split roots, as well as reduced nutrient uptake and stunted growth. Water deeply to encourage strong root systems, ensuring the soil drains well between waterings to avoid waterlogging and root rot. Mulching helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and supports steady, healthy growth throughout the season.
Detroit Dark Red can be harvested once the roots reach 5–7 cm in diameter for tender, flavorful results. Young roots are especially sweet and tender, while fully mature roots develop a deeper, earthy flavour and have improved storage capabilities. To harvest, gently loosen the soil around the roots before pulling to avoid damage. Leaves can be harvested sparingly throughout the plant’s growth, but avoid removing too many at once to allow roots to continue developing fully.
Beetroot is generally a low-maintenance crop, but seedlings, young, or stressed plants can be affected by pests and diseases such as leaf miners, aphids, and Cercospora Leaf Spot.
Leaf miners create pale, winding trails on leaves, which reduces the plant’s ability to photosynthesize effectively, slowing growth.
Aphids cluster on new growth, sucking sap which can weaken plants and stunt development. To manage these pests, remove heavily affected leaves and encourage beneficial insects. Maintaining healthy soil, consistent watering, and good airflow helps to develop strong plants that can reduce stress and susceptibility.
Cercospora Leaf Spot is a fungal disease that produces small, grey-centered spots on leaves, which can lead to premature leaf drop, reduced photosynthesis, slower root growth, and lower yields. To prevent infection, ensure good airflow, avoid overhead watering, maintain garden hygiene, and remove infected leaves.