Chioggia Beet Seeds
Chioggia Beet Seeds
This captivating heirloom beet variety from Italy features unique concentric red and white circles within its roots. Best baked whole and sliced right before it's served, this variety maintains its distinctive pattern and offers a delightfully sweet taste. The roots are known for their sweetness, while the green leaves with pink-striped stems are tender and mild. It takes about 60 days for this variety to reach maturity.
Originating from Chioggia, a coastal town in northern Italy, the Chioggia beet seeds made their way to America around 1865. The Mediterranean region is believed to be the birthplace of beets, cultivated there for millennia. Eventually, beets were grown in Germany and the Netherlands primarily for livestock feed before being introduced to England for the same purpose. There, the economically disadvantaged began to cultivate them as a cost-effective nutritional source. The beets then crossed the ocean with American colonists, becoming a staple in the New World for both their edible roots and greens.
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How To Grow
How To Grow
Sowing: Directly sow Chioggia beet seeds outdoors about 4 weeks prior to the last expected frost. Soften the seeds by soaking them in water for 2 hours before planting in an area that receives full sun and has well-drained soil. Place the seeds approximately 2.5 centimeters deep and 2.5 centimeters apart in rows that are 30.5 to 61 centimeters apart. Firmly press the soil down over the seeds to ensure good contact with the soil and expect germination to occur within 5-15 days. Enhance soil fertility by adding compost or other organic matter. For beneficial companion planting, consider planting beets alongside bush beans, onions, or members of the cabbage family, while avoiding planting them near pole beans.
Growing: Due to each beet "seed" containing up to 8 actual seeds, it's necessary to thin the seedlings to approximately 7.6 centimeters apart. The removed plants can be replanted as a second crop, though transplanting them will set them back by approximately 2 weeks compared to the original plants. Take care to avoid bruising the seedlings when weeding. Chioggia beets thrive in cooler weather conditions and can withstand temperatures down to approximately -3.89°C.
Harvesting
Harvesting
Harvesting: For optimal flavor and tenderness, candy striped beets should be harvested when they measure between 2.5 cm and 7.6 cm in diameter. Upon harvesting, twist off the greens approximately 2.5 cm from the stem to prevent the roots from bleeding. To maintain the distinctive coloring of the Chioggia beets, it's best to process them whole and slice them just before serving. The attractive, delicious, pink-stemmed greens of candy-striped beets reach maturity in about 40 days. Up to a third of these greens can be harvested without harming the plant.
Seed Saving
Seed Saving
Seed Saving: To maintain the genetic purity of Chioggia beets, it's important to isolate them from other chard and beet varieties by a distance of at least two miles, as they are wind pollinated. In order to produce seeds, beet plants need to endure the winter season. In regions with warmer climates, simply applying mulch to the plants is sufficient. However, in cooler climates, it's necessary to excavate the roots and store them in sand, ensuring they do not touch each other, in a cool and humid location. These roots can then be replanted early in the spring. As spring arrives, the plants will begin to produce seed heads; it's crucial to wait until these seed heads are fully mature and dry before harvesting them. Once dry, the seeds will easily detach from the stems. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place where they can remain viable for up to five years.
Extra Facts
Extra Facts
Planting Methods: Direct Sowing, Indoor, Outdoor
Blooming Season: Chioggia beet seeds don't have a distinct blooming season as they primarily focus on root development. Harvest before flowering for optimal flavor.
Planting Season: Early Spring or Late Summer
Latin Name/USDA Zones: Beta vulgaris subsp/ 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 0
Sunlight Required/Height: Full Sun/ 20.32 cm to 30.5 cm
Can I Grow Beet Seeds Sprouts: Yes
Shelf Life After Test Date: The shelf life of Chioggia beet seeds after the test date can vary based on storage conditions. When stored in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and extreme temperatures, Chioggia beet seeds can remain viable for several years past the test date. However, it's essential to note that seed viability may gradually decline over time.
Seed Type: GMO Fee, Open Pollinated, Heirloom
Soil Type: Sandy loam or Loamy soil