White Detroit

Beet

Zone 11b Save Garden

🌱 50d to harvest Rosette

Silken-smooth white roots glow like pale ivory beneath the soil, tender and sweet with a mild, clean flavor that feels luminous r…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Direct Sow
Last Frost	Jan 1st
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jan 1st
Harvest Begins	Feb 20th
Harvest Ends	Dec 31st

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	50
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Rosette
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	50
Min Soil Temp (°F)	40
Min Night Temp (°F)	28
Harden Off (days)	Not Required

Recommended Companions

Amsterdam Forcing Carrot

Giant Musselburgh Leek

Frequently Asked Questions

What pests or diseases commonly affect Beta vulgaris (white beet) like White Detroit, and how can I control them?

A frequent issue is Cercospora leaf spot, which shows up as tan to dark spots with yellowing around them; remove affected leaves and avoid wetting foliage during watering. For insect pressure, watch for aphids and leaf miners on beet foliage—rinse aphids off with a strong water jet and use insecticidal soap for repeat infestations (follow the label). Keep rows weeded and thin seedlings promptly to improve airflow around the crowns and leaves.

How often should I water White Detroit beets during the main growing phase, and what soil moisture level do they need?

During the main bulking period (roughly weeks 3–7), keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy: aim for about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water per week, split into 2–3 waterings during hot spells. Dry-out followed by heavy watering can cause poor root texture, so water lightly and more frequently when the top 1 inch of soil dries. Mulch after seedlings are established to reduce surface drying, especially in full sun.

How can I tell when White Detroit beets are ready to harvest?

Harvest when roots reach about 2–3 inches (5–8 cm) in diameter, typically around 50 days from sowing for White Detroit. Another cue is the visible shoulder/pull-up near the soil line—when it’s developed fully and feels firm, they’re ready. Pull one test beet first; if it’s still small or woody, give the rest a bit more time.

Silken-smooth white roots glow like pale ivory beneath the soil, tender and sweet with a mild, clean flavor that feels luminous rather than earthy. White Detroit forms a compact, uniform crop of crisp, fine-grained beets that roast beautifully until silky, and also shine fresh for bright salads and quick pickling. Grow for a 50-day harvest window—ideal for gardeners who want striking color contrast without the deep-red intensity.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 40°F and nights stay above 28°F before moving outdoors.

Expert Note

Sow directly in cool soil early, keep moisture steady for even emergence, and thin to about 3–4 inches for best uniform roots.