How to Grow Improved Burgundy
Improved Burgundy
Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris
vegetableImproved Burgundy is a heritage beet variety prized for its deep crimson-red flesh and excellent sweetness. It produces globe-shaped roots with tender greens suitable for eating, making it a dual-purpose crop. This open-pollinated variety is beloved by gardeners for reliable germination, consistent quality, and outstanding flavor.
When should you plant Improved Burgundy in your zone?
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Example Improved Burgundy timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Improved Burgundy
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Improved Burgundy
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Improved Burgundy dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-9; best in zones 3-8 for spring and fall harvests
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Get my Improved Burgundy timeline →Growth Stages
Germination & Emergence
7-10 daysBeet seeds are actually seed clusters (multigerm); seedlings emerge with cotyledons and first true leaves appearing.
Keep soil temperature 50-85°F for optimal germination. Soak seeds for 2 hours before planting to speed germination. Thin seedlings to final spacing once first true leaves appear.
Early Vegetative Growth
2-3 weeksYoung plants develop 3-4 true leaves and establish root systems. Leaves are tender and edible at this stage.
Thin to 3-inch spacing carefully; thinned greens are excellent eating. Maintain consistent moisture. Begin light fertilizing with balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks.
Root Development
3-4 weeksRoot bulbing begins; shoulders become visible at soil surface. Leaves continue expanding, reaching 6-8 inches tall.
Mulch lightly around plants to keep roots cool and retain moisture. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizer, which promotes excess foliage over roots. Keep weeds controlled.
Root Enlargement & Maturation
2-3 weeksRoots swell to mature globe shape (2-3 inches diameter), darkening to deep burgundy. Flesh becomes intensely sweet and tender.
Maintain steady moisture and cool temperatures (ideal 60-70°F). Slightly cooler conditions enhance flavor. Monitor for bolting in extreme heat.
Harvest Ready
Harvest window: 1-4 weeksRoots reach full size with smooth skin and deep color. Greens are full and vibrant if harvested young, tougher if left long.
Harvest roots when 1.5-3 inches diameter for peak tenderness, or up to 4 inches for storage. Roots store well in cool conditions; cut greens leaving 1 inch of stem.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Inspect undersides of leaves regularly. Remove affected leaves. Use row covers on young plants. Introduce parasitic wasps. Spinosad spray as last resort.
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Remove affected leaves promptly. Use reflective mulch. Spinosad spray weekly if infestation is severe.
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Use floating row covers until plants are established. Diatomaceous earth around base. Neem oil spray on young leaves.
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Improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering. Remove affected leaves. Apply sulfur dust or copper fungicide if widespread.
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Strong water spray to dislodge. Insecticidal soap. Encourage natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings.
Uses
Roasting & Cooking
CulinaryImproved Burgundy's deep sweetness and tender texture make it ideal for roasting, boiling, steaming, or adding to salads. The dark red pigment remains vibrant through cooking. [source]
Greens & Salads
CulinaryYoung beet greens are nutritious and tender with a slightly earthy flavor, excellent raw in salads or lightly cooked like spinach. [source]
Nutritional & Health Benefits
MedicinalBeets contain nitrates that support cardiovascular health, betalains with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and folate for cellular health. Used in natural medicine for blood support. [source]
Natural Dye
HouseholdThe deep burgundy pigment from Improved Burgundy roots produces rich red and purple dyes for fabric and yarn, a traditional craft use. [source]
Fermentation & Preservation
CraftBeet roots are excellent for pickling and fermentation, producing vibrant colored, tangy condiments and probiotic foods. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest beets when 1.5-3 inches in diameter for maximum tenderness and sweetness. Larger roots (up to 4 inches) are still good for storage and cooking. Twist or pull gently from soil; leave 1 inch of stem attached to prevent bleeding during cooking. Harvest greens anytime after plants are 4 inches tall; young tender greens are best. For storage, trim greens to 1 inch, cure in cool dark place for 1-2 weeks, then store in cool (32-40°F), humid conditions; roots keep 3-6 months.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Improved Burgundy is an open-pollinated heirloom variety developed in the early 20th century and remains largely unchanged, making it reliable for seed-saving.
- 🌱 Beet seeds are actually fruit clusters containing 2-4 individual seeds; this is why seedlings emerge in clusters and require thinning.
- 🌱 The deep burgundy pigment intensifies in cooler weather and with proper calcium levels in soil, making fall crops often more vivid than spring harvests.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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