These traditional purple beets have been true to their name in my garden trails -- the first beets to sprout and also the first to form a bulb. These are the beets I use to make the traditional borscht soup, and they are perfect for pickling as well as fresh eating. 40 heirloom, chemical-free seeds per pack. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Publication 374 (1940), "the name Early Wonder beet appeared for the first time in 1911 in the seed catalogs of FH Woodruff & Sons and of SD Woodruff & Sons. In the 1914 catalog of the latter firm it was listed as Early Wonder or Arlington Strain of Crosby's Egyptian Beet thus establishing the synonymy and the source of seed. This strain was reported to be deeper and more nearly round than other stocks of Crosby Egyptian Constant selection." Biennial. Free shipping on orders over $32. Botanical name: Beta vulgaris.

NUTRITION INFO: Early Wonder beets are an excellent source of folate (natural folic acid, a form of vitamin B) and a good source of manganese. According to the Mayo Clinic website, folic acid helps women of childbearing age prevent specific kinds of birth defects. Folic acid is also of interest with respect to cognitive enhancement, cancer, psychiatric illnesses, and cardiovascular conditions. Manganese, according to Oregon State University's Micronutrient Information Center, is essential for cellular antioxidant function, metabolism, bone development, and wound healing.

HOW TO GROW: Plant 1/2-inch deep in spring, summer, or fall. Keep moist until established. If planting in winter, follow instructions in the Backyard Winter Gardening book. Harvest at any bulb size, or harvest leaves at any size.