Robuschka Beet

From our friends at Experimental Farm Network:

Robuschka is a classic red beet with long-lasting storage capacity. The roots are lovely and round, and were clearly selected for vigorous growth as well as sweetness. As far as we can tell, this variety originated with the famous German biodynamic cooperative known as Demeter.

Our seeds were grown by Clint Freund, Kass McKinnon, and Dusty Hinz, in collaboration with Rising Sun Farm in River Falls, WI, known for their pioneering efforts in naked gardening. Teamwork makes the dream work!

Days to maturity: 60-65 days

Seeds per pack: 100-110

Germination rate: 73% on 11/12/2024

Planting / harvesting notes

Direct seed 1/2-3/4 inch deep after danger of last frost. Plants should end up 3-5 inches from each other. Row spacing could be 12-18 inches. It's more time and energy, but beets also transplant relatively well, so for example, if you have a situation with really bad weeds or you are notoriously bad at staying up on weeding, you could start seeds in flats and transplant to freshly prepared ground to get ahead.

Seed keeping notes

Beets are wind pollinated and biennial. Allow overwintered plants to flower and then turn brown. Seeds are ready when they are dried out, which begins towards the base of the plant and moves up the seed head. Harvest the stalks at the dry stage when about 2/3 of the seeds are dried. Allow the plants to further dry in a ventilated place for 7-14 days. Thresh by running a gloved hand down the stalk, removing the seeds.