Lutz Winter Keeper Beet (Heirloom, 80 Days)

This old-time variety remains the best for both storage and beet greens harvested at any time. Lutz Winter Keeper Beet roots are half long, deep purple and will retain their sweetness if properly stored throughout the winter. 

300 seeds 

PLANTING

Beta vulgaris

Germination: 5-10 days

Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 50-85ºF. Soaking seed overnight aids in the germination.

Seed Sowing Depth: 1/2” deep

Starting Indoors: 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Sow 1-2 seeds per cell/pot. Thin to 1 seedling per cell/pot. Transplant outdoors when the first true leaves appear, 3” apart.

Sowing Outdoors: Early spring with soil temperatures at least 50ºF. Sow 1-2” apart, thin when plants are 2-4” tall, 3-4” apart. Germination is slower at lower soil temperatures.

How much does a packet plant: 20-25 foot single row  

Harvest: Begin picking at 1” for baby beets and up to 3” across for the most tender and best tasting. For best storage cut off the greens 2” above the top of the beet.

Tips: Lutz Winter Keeper Beet “seeds” are actually fruits that contain multiple seeds inside with several seedlings emerging from one seed. Use the thinned seedlings for beet greens or plant a heavily seeded row for baby beet greens. Beets need to grow rapidly and evenly by providing soil rich in organic matter and adequate moisture. Sow every 2 weeks for a continuous harvest.