Chioggia Candy Stripe Beet is an Italian heirloom originating from the town of Chioggia, near Venice. Popular since the early 1800s, this beet variety is known for its beautiful, sweet-flavored roots that reveal striking bull's-eye patterns when sliced—concentric rings of white alternating with wine-red. Each seed produces multiple plants, and the thinnings make a delightful addition to salads.
Packed with nutrition, beets are high in fiber, potassium, folic acid, and the antioxidant betacyanin. These versatile beets are delicious when roasted, steamed, or pickled, and the green leaves serve as an excellent spinach substitute. Expect heavy yields from this variety, which thrives in mild climates where multiple crops are possible. Ready to harvest in approximately 60 days.
* SCROLL DOWN FOR DETAILED GROWING INFO *
All Nimble NiteCap Seeds are:
• Heirloom
• Organic
• Non-GMO
• Open Pollinated
• Untreated
• US Grown
• growing instructions included
• Regular testing is conducted to uphold the highest germination standards, all the while employing appropriate seed storage techniques.
Sustainable Packaging & Shipping:
• NimbleNitecap seeds are packed in eco-friendly, compostable seed packets. Seed packets are printed in house with vegetable-based inks on biodegradable, recycled materials. (Small plastic bags are infrequently used to prevent the loss of very small seeds.)
• All orders are carefully packed and shipped with tracking via USPS First Class (or Priority, if selected) in padded ECOENCLOSE recycled and reusable mailers, or recycled boxes to protect your items in transit.
Most orders ship out the same or next business day! Please note that this time may be extended during peak season.
• FREE SHIPPING on all orders of $35 or more. Flat Rate shipping no matter how many packets you order.
* DIRECTIONS *
Common Names: Chioggia Candy Stripe Beet
Latin Name: Beta vulgaris
Type: Root Vegetable
Life Cycle: Biennial grown as an annual
USDA Zones: 2 - 10
Stratification: Not required
Germination Ease: Moderate (soaking seeds recommended)
Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Moisture: Prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil
Soil: Loose, sandy, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5
Height: 12-18 inches (tops)
Spread: 2-3 inches (root diameter)
Color: Bull's-eye pattern of white and red rings
Bloom Season: N/A (grown for roots, not flowers)
Companion Plants: Suitable companions include onions, lettuce, and beans.
Potential Toxicity: Non-toxic to humans and pets
Climate Adaptability: Performs best in mild climates; avoid growing during extreme heat
~ Sowing ~
When to Start Inside: Not recommended
When to Start Outside: RECOMMENDED. Sow seeds 2 to 4 weeks before the average last frost for an early summer crop, and in late summer for a fall crop. In zones 10 and 11, sow from fall through winter. Avoid growing during periods of high temperatures.
Special Germination Instructions: To hasten germination, soak seeds for 8 to 24 hours before sowing.
Planting Depth: Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Light and Temperature: Beets prefer cooler temperatures between 50-75°F (10-24°C).
Germination: Seeds typically germinate in 7-14 days under optimal conditions.
~ Transplanting Seedlings Outdoors ~
Timing: Direct sowing is recommended, as beets do not transplant well.
Location: Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
Spacing: Thin seedlings to 2-3 inches apart to allow for proper root development.
Transplanting: Not applicable; beets should be direct sown.
~ Growing ~
Watering: Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. Beets need consistent moisture for even growth and to prevent tough roots.
Fertilizing: Beets benefit from a balanced fertilizer or compost worked into the soil before planting.
Pest and Disease Management: Monitor for pests such as aphids and leaf miners. Use organic pest control methods such as insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.
Maintenance: Thin seedlings as needed to avoid overcrowding and ensure proper root development.
~ Harvesting ~
When to Harvest: For greens, harvest leaves when they are small, under 3 inches long. For roots, harvest early spring sowings before the summer heat and late summer sowings before the first heavy frost.
How to Harvest: Gently loosen the soil around the roots and pull them up by the tops. Harvest during cool, dry weather to avoid damage.
Drying and Storing: Beets can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks. For long-term storage, pack in damp sand and store in a cool, dark place.
~ Seed Saving ~
Allow one or two plants to flower and produce seeds in their second year. Collect seeds once the seed heads have dried and store them in a cool, dry place for future planting.
~ Additional Information ~
Forage for Pollinators: N/A (Beets are grown for their roots, not flowers)
Origin: Italy, specifically from the town of Chioggia, near Venice
Nomenclature: The genus name "Beta" is derived from the ancient Latin name for beets, and "vulgaris" means common.
History: Chioggia Candy Stripe Beets have been a popular heirloom variety since the early 1800s, treasured for their unique appearance and sweet flavor.
Potential Toxicity: Non-toxic and safe for consumption by humans and pets.
Climate Adaptability: Beets thrive in cooler temperatures and can be grown in spring and fall in most regions. In warmer climates, they may benefit from shade and more frequent watering to prevent heat stress.
