White Detroit
50d to harvest
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.
Crop Dates
Growing note: In frost-free Zone 13b, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Start Indoors | — |
| Climate | Frost-Free Climate |
| Transplant / Sow Outdoors | Oct 1st |
| Harvest Begins | Nov 20th |
| Harvest Ends | Feb 28th |
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
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.