Lutz Green Leaf Beet
Best dual-purpose vegetable for gardeners prioritizing long-term winter food storage.
The Lutz Green Leaf beet is a versatile, open-pollinated variety perfect for both root and foliage consumption. Known for its exceptional storage capabilities, this 'Winterkeeper' beet offers sweet, crimson roots that grow large without becoming pithy. The hearty, edible greens are a bonus, making this a dual-season crop. Ready in about 65 days, it's ideal for summer sowing for a fall harvest. These non-GMO seeds are a great choice for gardeners seeking reliable, high-quality produce with excellent storage potential.
$6.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
270
/ 5876
#270 in Seeds & Seed Tape
Price vs Category Average
-35%
Below average
Days to Maturity
65
/ days
Who it's for
- Homesteaders seeking high-volume harvests from limited plantings
- Cooks who value dual-purpose crops for roots and greens
- Gardeners planning for long-term winter food storage
Who should skip it
- Gardeners in regions with short, frost-prone growing seasons
- Busy growers who might miss the optimal harvest window
- Urban gardeners working with small plots or containers
Performance breakdown
Storage Longevity
The Winterkeeper reputation ensures roots stay crisp long after the harvest.
Culinary Versatility
Dual-purpose harvest provides both sweet, large roots and hearty edible greens.
Growth Consistency
Reliable open-pollinated genetics prevent pithiness even as the roots grow large.
Seasonal Adaptability
Perfect for summer sowing to maximize yields during the fall season.
Germination Reliability
Solid baseline germination rates provide confidence for successful garden bed establishment.
Garden Space Efficiency
Requires significant row spacing, making it unsuitable for small container gardening.
Key Specs
Days to Maturity
65 days
Seed Depth
1/2 inch
Seed Spacing
1 inch
Thin Plants to
3–4 inches
Row Spacing
12–16 inches
Minimum Germination Rate
75%
Seed Life
2 years
Soil pH Preference
6.0-7.0
Features
- Unsurpassed storage capacity ('Winterkeeper')
- Roots sweeten with age
- Hearty, edible foliage
- Dual-season variety for fall/winter harvest
- Open-pollinated for seed saving
- Roots grow large without pithiness
- Supports heart health
- Non-GMO seeds
What customers say
Customers consistently celebrate the exceptional quality and reliability of the Lutz Green Leaf Beet. Reviewers frequently highlight the impressive germination rates, noting that the seeds sprout vigorously and establish quickly, simplifying the growing process. The resulting beets are highly valued for their tender, flavorful greens and large, sweet roots, offering excellent dual purpose performance. This variety is considered a dependable staple for both experienced and novice gardeners seeking high yield and superior taste.
Know before you buy
Yes, the foliage is hearty and completely edible. This variety is specifically prized for being a dual-purpose crop, allowing you to harvest both the roots and the greens.
It is known as a 'Winterkeeper' because of its exceptional storage capabilities. Unlike many other varieties, these beets maintain their quality and flavor for a long time after harvest when stored properly.
No, the Lutz Green Leaf beet is unique because the roots can grow quite large while maintaining a sweet, tender texture without becoming pithy or woody.
These beets are ideal for summer sowing. With a maturity time of 65 days, planting them in mid-to-late summer will typically yield a harvest ready for the fall and winter months.
No, this variety is not recommended for container gardening. Because the roots grow large and require specific spacing, they perform best when planted directly in the ground.
Yes, because they are an open-pollinated variety, you can save the seeds from your harvest to replant in future seasons.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
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$7