Lutz Green Leaf

Beet

Zone 5a Save Garden

Botanical illustration of Lutz Green Leaf

🌱 60d to harvest Rosette

Sweetly earthy and richly colored, Lutz Green Leaf beets bring a deep, velvety red interior under a crown of crisp, emerald folia…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Direct Sow
Last Frost	May 8th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	May 8th
Harvest Begins	Jul 7th
Harvest Ends	Sep 30th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	60
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

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the most common disease problem for beet (Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris), and how do I treat it?

Beets commonly develop Cercospora leaf spot, which shows up as small, tan centers with reddish-brown rings on older leaves. Remove and discard affected leaves, avoid overhead watering, and improve airflow by spacing plants once they’re established. If the problem is spreading, apply a labeled copper-based fungicide according to the package directions.

How often should I water beets during the main growing phase (around the first 6–8 weeks)?

During the main growth period, keep soil evenly moist—about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water per week total, adjusted for heat and rainfall. Let the top 1 inch of soil dry slightly between waterings, but don’t allow long dry spells that cause stunted roots or woody texture. Mulch lightly to reduce moisture swings and help the roots size up evenly.

How can I tell when my beets (Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris) are ready to harvest?

Start checking around 60 days from sowing by gently pulling one plant and looking at the root size. Harvest when roots are about 1.5–3 inches (4–7 cm) wide for best tenderness, and before they get too large and hard. If you see white “hairy” root tips pressing against the soil surface, harvest soon to prevent toughness.

Sweetly earthy and richly colored, Lutz Green Leaf beets bring a deep, velvety red interior under a crown of crisp, emerald foliage. The roots develop a smooth, tender texture with a classic round-to-globed shape that stays pleasantly uniform from garden to harvest. Grow them for bold, jewel-toned results in roasted trays, vibrant fresh salads, and striking pickled slices that hold their color beautifully.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

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

Expert Note

Sow beet seeds directly in cool soil and keep the bed consistently moist; thin early to avoid misshapen roots and to promote tender greens.