1.Beetroot variety DDR (Detroit Dark Red) – 

• DDR stands for Detroit Dark Red, a popular and old open-pollinated beetroot variety.
• It is widely grown for both table use and commercial cultivation due to its reliability and uniform roots.

2. Root characteristics

• Shape: Globe-shaped (round)
• Skin colour: Smooth, dark red
• Flesh: Deep blood-red, sometimes with light zoning
• Size: About 2–3 cm diameter (small to medium roots)

3. Plant features

• Leaves: Bright green with red veins
• Growth type: Cool-season root crop

4. Maturity and yield

• Duration: Ready in 55–65 days after sowing
• Yield: Around 20–25 tonnes per hectare under good management
• Nature: High-yielding and uniform

5. Adaptability & cultivation

• Suitable for cool climates; tolerates light frost
• Best grown in well-drained, fertile loamy soil
• Performs well in full sun conditions

6. Quality & taste

• Taste: Sweet, tender, and earthy
• Texture: Juicy and smooth flesh

7. Uses

• Suitable for:

  • Salads

  • Cooking and curries
  • Pickling
  • Juicing
• Leaves are also edible as greens.

8. Special features

• Good disease tolerance
• Highly adaptable and stable variety
• Preferred for market due to attractive deep red colour

DDR (Detroit Dark Red) is a high-yielding, early-maturing beetroot variety with round, deep red roots, sweet taste, and wide adaptability, making it one of the most popular varieties for farmers and home gardens.