Golden Detroit Beet is a vibrant, heirloom variety known for its stunning golden-orange flesh, mild earthy-sweet flavor, and tender texture. Unlike red beets, it doesn’t bleed color, making it a beautiful and clean choice for salads, roasting, and pickling.

Quick Facts

• Botanical name: Beta vulgaris

• Common name: Golden Detroit Beet

• Plant type: Cool-season biennial grown as annual

• Days to maturity: 55–60 days

• Root size: 2–3 inches round

• Sun exposure: Full sun to partial shade

• Hardiness zones: USDA 3–10

• Spacing: Thin to 2–3 inches apart in rows 12–18 inches apart

When to Plant

• Spring: Direct sow 2–4 weeks before last frost.

• Fall: Sow 6–8 weeks before the first expected frost.

• Succession planting: Every 2–3 weeks for an extended harvest.

• Germination time: 5–10 days at 60–75°F (16–24°C)

How to Plant

1. Soil preparation: Loose, well-drained soil enriched with compost. Avoid fresh manure and compacted soil.

2. Sowing depth: 1/2 inch deep; space seeds 1 inch apart.

3. Thinning: When seedlings reach 2 inches tall, thin to 2–3 inches apart (use thinnings as baby greens!).

4. Watering: Maintain consistent moisture for tender roots and vibrant color.

Growing Tips

• Golden beets are less earthy than red varieties and stay brightly colored after cooking.

• Mulch to retain moisture and prevent weeds.

• Leaves are also edible and can be harvested young.

• Great for raised beds, containers, and compact gardens.

Harvesting

• Harvest when roots reach 2–3 inches in diameter.

• Don’t delay too long — older roots can become woody.

• Trim leaves 1 inch above root for storage; use greens fresh or cooked.

Culinary Use

• Excellent for roasting, boiling, slicing raw, or pickling — golden flesh won’t stain!

• Mild, sweet flavor pairs well with citrus, herbs, and goat cheese.

• Great choice for colorful salads, soups, or mixed root dishes.

Companion Plants

Compatible with onions, lettuce, bush beans, and brassicas. Avoid planting near pole beans.

Why Grow Golden Detroit Beets?

Golden Detroit offers a uniquely sweet flavor, brilliant color, and clean preparation with no staining. It’s just as easy to grow as red beets and brings variety, beauty, and nutrition to your garden and table.