Organic Bulls Blood Beet Seeds (Beta vulgaris 'Bulls Blood') – Striking Dark Red Foliage, Sweet Roots – Approx. 20 Seeds
Beta vulgaris 'Bulls Blood'
Minimum: 20+ seeds
Add a vibrant splash of color and delicious flavor to your garden with Organic Bulls Blood Beet Seeds (Beta vulgaris 'Bulls Blood'). This unique heirloom variety is known for its striking dark red foliage and sweet, tender roots. The deep burgundy leaves are not only visually stunning, making a dramatic statement in your garden beds and containers, but they are also edible and perfect for salads and garnishes. The beets themselves are deliciously sweet and can be enjoyed roasted, steamed, or pickled. Bulls Blood Beets are a dual-purpose plant, offering both ornamental appeal and culinary versatility.
Growing Tips for Organic Bulls Blood Beet Seeds
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Planting: Sow seeds directly in the garden as soon as the soil can be worked in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest. Plant seeds 1/2 inch deep and 1-2 inches apart in rows that are 12-18 inches apart. For a continuous harvest, sow seeds every 2-3 weeks.
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Soil: Beets prefer well-draining, loose soil rich in organic matter. A soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5 is ideal. Prepare the soil by amending with compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage.
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Sunlight: Bulls Blood Beets thrive in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for the best growth and flavor.
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Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Beets need regular watering, especially during dry periods, to ensure even growth and prevent the roots from becoming tough.
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Thinning: Thin seedlings to 3-4 inches apart once they reach about 2 inches tall. Thinning helps ensure that the beetroots have enough space to develop properly. The thinned seedlings can be used as baby greens.
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Fertilizing: Beets are light feeders but benefit from a balanced organic fertilizer or compost applied at planting time and again mid-season if the soil is poor. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can promote leafy growth at the expense of root development.
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Harvesting: Harvest beetroots when they are 1-3 inches in diameter, typically 50-60 days after planting. For the best flavor and texture, avoid letting the roots grow too large. The leaves can be harvested at any time for use as salad greens or cooked greens.
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Pest and Disease Management: Beets are relatively pest-resistant but can occasionally be affected by leaf miners, aphids, and flea beetles. Use organic pest control methods like neem oil or insecticidal soap to manage any infestations. Crop rotation and good garden hygiene also help prevent disease.
Culinary Uses for Bulls Blood Beets
- Roasting: Roasted beets are a delicious and simple way to enjoy the sweet, earthy flavor of Bulls Blood Beets. Toss with olive oil, salt, and herbs, then roast until tender.
- Salads: The striking dark red leaves of Bulls Blood Beets add color and nutrition to fresh salads. The roots can also be shredded and used raw in salads for a crunchy, sweet addition.
- Pickling: Preserve the flavor of the season by pickling beets. Pickled beets are a tangy, sweet treat that can be enjoyed year-round as a side dish or salad topping.
- Steaming and Boiling: Steam or boil beets for a simple, nutritious side dish. The cooking process enhances their natural sweetness and makes them tender and delicious.
Health Benefits
- Rich in Nutrients: Beets are a great source of essential vitamins and minerals, including folate, manganese, potassium, and vitamin C. They are also high in dietary fiber, which supports healthy digestion.
- Antioxidant Powerhouse: The vibrant red color of Bulls Blood Beets comes from betalains, powerful antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and protect the body from oxidative stress.
- Health: Beets contain nitrates, which are converted into nitric oxide in the body, helping to improve blood flow and support cardiovascular health.
Order Your Organic Bulls Blood Beet Seeds Today!
Bring the beauty and flavor of Organic Bulls Blood Beets to your garden. With their striking dark red foliage and sweet, tender roots, these beets are as versatile as they are beautiful. Ideal for both ornamental and culinary use, Bulls Blood Beets are a fantastic addition to any home garden. Plant them today and enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious, nutrient-rich beets!