Bulls Blood Beet Seeds

Sowing: Directly sow Bull's Blood beet seeds for sale outdoors approximately 4 weeks before the last expected frost. Prior to planting, soften the seeds by soaking them in water for 2 hours. Plant them in an area that receives full sun and has well-drained soil. Place the seeds about 2.5 centimeters deep and 2.5 centimeters apart in rows spaced 30.5 to 61 centimeters apart. Firmly press the soil over the seeds to ensure good soil contact and expect germination to occur within 5-15 days. Enhance soil fertility by incorporating compost or other organic matter. For beneficial companion planting, consider planting Bull's Blood beet seeds for sale alongside bush beans, onions, or members of the cabbage family, while avoiding planting them near pole beans.

Growing: Due to each beet "seed" containing up to 8 actual seeds, it's necessary to thin the seedlings to approximately 7.6 centimeters apart. The removed plants can be replanted as a second crop, though transplanting them will set them back by approximately 2 weeks compared to the original plants. Take care to avoid bruising the seedlings while weeding. Bull's Blood beets thrive in cooler weather conditions and can withstand temperatures down to approximately -3.89°C.

Harvesting: Beets are at their peak in terms of flavor and tenderness when they reach a diameter of approximately 2.5 to 7.6 centimeters. After harvesting, it's advisable to remove the tops by twisting them off about 2.5 centimeters above the stem to prevent bleeding. Bull's Blood beets additionally yield delightful reddish-purple tops that reach maturity in approximately 40 days. Up to one-third of these tops can be harvested without causing harm to the plant.

Seed Saving: To maintain the genetic integrity of beet varieties, it's crucial to keep them separated from other chard and beet types by a distance of at least two miles, as they are pollinated by wind. For beet plants to produce seeds, they must endure the winter season. In regions with warmer climates, applying mulch to the plants is sufficient. However, in cooler climates, it's necessary to carefully excavate the roots and store them in sand, ensuring that the roots do not come into contact with each other, in a cool and humid environment. These roots can then be replanted in early spring. As spring arrives, the plants will begin to develop seed heads; it's important to wait until these seed heads are fully mature and dry before harvesting them. Once dry, the seeds will easily detach from the stems. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place where they can remain viable for up to five years.

Planting Methods: Direct Seeding Outdoors, Indoor Seed Starting, Successive Planting, Raised Beds or Containers, Companion Planting
Blooming Season: Late Spring or Early Summer
Planting Season: Early Spring or Late Summer
Latin Name/USDA Zones: Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris./ 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
Sunlight Required/Height: Full Sun/ 20-30 cm
Can I Grow Beet Seeds Sprouts: Yes
Shelf Life After Test Date: The shelf life of Bulls Blood Beet seeds varies, typically remaining viable for 2-4 years after the test date if stored in a cool, dry place. After this period, germination rates may gradually decline. Store the seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry location to maintain their quality. Consider performing a germination test before planting older seeds to assess their viability. Fresh seeds generally yield higher success rates, ensuring a robust and healthy crop of beets.
Seed Type: Non-hybrid, Open-pollinated
Soil Type: Sandy Loam or Loamy Soil