Ruby Queen Beet Seeds

Planting: Start by direct sowing Ruby Queen beet seeds outdoors four weeks before the last frost is expected. Before planting, soak the seeds in water for two hours to aid germination. Select a spot with full sun exposure and well-drained soil. Plant the seeds approximately 2.5 centimeters deep and space them 2.5 centimeters apart in rows spaced 30 to 60 centimeters apart. Ensure good soil contact by gently pressing down the earth above the seeds. Germination usually occurs within 5 to 15 days. Improve soil fertility by adding compost or other organic matter. For beneficial companion planting, consider planting Ruby Queen beet seeds alongside bush beans, onions, or members of the cabbage family, while avoiding planting them near pole beans.

Cultivation: Since each beet "seed" contains multiple actual seeds, thin out the seedlings to maintain a spacing of 7.5 centimeters between plants. The removed seedlings can be replanted for a second crop, although they will be about 2 weeks behind the original plants. Be careful not to damage the seedlings while weeding. Ruby Queen beets thrive in cooler temperatures and can tolerate lows down to -4°C.

You can harvest beets once they reach a diameter of 2.5 centimeters, typically around two months after planting. For optimal taste and tenderness, it's recommended not to let the beets exceed a diameter of 7.5 centimeters. After pulling them from the ground, twist off the tops approximately 2.5 centimeters up the stem to prevent bleeding. You can also harvest up to one third of the delicious beet greens without harming the plant. Golden Detroit beets store well for future use.

Since beets rely on wind for pollination, it's important to keep them separated from other varieties of chard and beet by a distance of at least 3.2 kilometers to maintain genetic purity. Beets need to endure winter conditions to produce seeds. In regions with warmer climates, simply mulch the plants. However, in cooler climates, it's necessary to dig up the roots and store them in sand, ensuring they don't touch each other, in a cool and humid location. Replant them in early spring. As spring arrives, the plants will start producing seeds; wait until the seed heads are fully mature and dry before harvesting. Once completely dry, the seeds will easily detach from the stems. Store Ruby Queen beet seeds in a cool, dry place for up to five years.

Planting Methods: Direct Sowing, Indoor Seed Trays, Successive Planting, Raised Beds, Container Gardening, Companion Planting, Intercropping, Mulching, Outdoor
Blooming Season Ruby Queen Beets are not known for their showy flowers, as they are grown primarily for their flavorful roots. The focus is on the development of the beet itself, which reaches maturity and is ready for harvest in about 50 days. During this time, the plant undergoes various growth stages, but it is not typically cultivated for its blossoms. The primary harvesting period aligns with the maturation of the beetroot, and once harvested, the plant does not continue to bloom.
Planting Season: During the cool seasons of Spring and Fall
Latin Name/USDA Zones: Beta vulgaris/ 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 20
Sunlight Required/Height: Full sun to partial shade/ 30.5 cm to 46 cm
Can I Grow Beet Seeds Sprouts: Yes
Shelf Life After Test Date: The shelf life of Ruby Queen Beet seeds can vary, but generally, they remain viable for about 2 to 4 years if stored under proper conditions. The "test date" on the seed packet refers to the date when the germination rate was tested, indicating the seed's viability.
Seed Type: Open Pollinated, Non-GMO
Soil Type: Loam Soil