How to Grow Candy Striped Beet
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Candy Striped Beet
Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris
vegetableCandy Striped (Chioggia) beets are a stunning Italian heirloom variety featuring concentric rings of deep red and white flesh inside, creating a candy-like striped pattern when sliced. These medium-sized, globe-shaped roots have excellent sweet flavor and tender texture. They're prized both for culinary appeal and ornamental value in gardens.
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Example Candy Striped Beet timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Candy Striped Beet
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Candy Striped Beet
Around Jun 6≈ 50 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-10; grows best in cool to moderate climates (zones 5-8)
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Germination & Seedling
2-3 weeksSeeds sprout within 7-10 days; true leaves emerge after cotyledons. Plants are small with thin stems and oval first leaves.
Keep soil consistently moist; thin seedlings to 2-3 inches apart to prevent crowding and competition. Provide good air circulation.
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksLeafy green tops develop with deeply veined leaves; root begins swelling underground. Plant height reaches 6-12 inches.
Thin to final spacing (3 inches) when plants are 2-3 inches tall; thin greens can be eaten. Water consistently and mulch to retain moisture. Side-dress with compost.
Root Development
3-4 weeksThe underground root enlarges and develops the characteristic striped pattern internally. Shoulders of the root may peek above soil.
Maintain even moisture to prevent splitting and woody texture. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizer which promotes excessive leaf growth over root development. Hill soil gently around exposed shoulders.
Maturity & Sizing
Variable, 50-75+ days from seedRoots reach 2-3 inches diameter; striping is fully developed internally (invisible externally until harvest). Leaves remain green and vigorous.
Can harvest early at 1.5-2 inches for baby beets, or wait for larger specimens. Monitor for pest damage. Water regularly to maintain quality.
Harvest
Harvest window is 2-4 weeksMature roots are pulled from ground, revealing the stunning candy-striped cross-section. Greens can be separated and stored.
Harvest when roots reach desired size (typically 2-3 inches). Twist or cut off greens 1-2 inches above root. Handle gently to avoid bruising. Cure in cool, dark place for 2 weeks before storage.
Common Pests
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Hand-pick affected leaves; use floating row covers early season; apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) if infestation is heavy
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Remove by hand; encourage natural predators; use insecticidal soap for severe infestations
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Use row covers on young seedlings; dust with diatomaceous earth; spray neem oil if necessary
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Spray with strong water stream; use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil; encourage ladybugs
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Remove infected leaves; improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply sulfur or copper fungicide if severe
Uses
Raw & Roasted Dishes
CulinaryCandy Striped beets can be shredded raw into salads for a sweet, earthy crunch, or roasted whole until tender and served sliced to showcase their stunning interior stripes. Their mild sweetness and tender texture make them ideal for fresh preparations, pickled vegetables, and elegant plating. [source]
Beet Greens & Microgreens
CulinaryThe tender young greens and thinned seedlings are edible with a slightly bitter, mineral-rich flavor perfect for salads and sautéed dishes. Candy Striped beet greens are highly nutritious and can be harvested continuously throughout the season. [source]
Cardiovascular & Athletic Support
MedicinalBeets are rich in dietary nitrates that improve blood flow and may lower blood pressure, plus betalains and other antioxidants that support overall health. Regular consumption has been studied for benefits to endurance and circulatory function. [source]
Natural Food Coloring
HouseholdBeet juice and cooked beets provide a deep red-purple natural dye for foods, textiles, and household projects. The vibrant color is stable and food-safe. [source]
Ornamental & Display
CraftThe spectacular striped cross-section makes Candy Striped beets a showstopper for food photography, centerpieces, and culinary presentations. Their visual appeal elevates both home and restaurant dishes. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Begin harvesting when roots are 1.5-2 inches in diameter (about 50-60 days), or wait until they reach 2-3 inches for larger roots (65-75 days). Do not harvest too large as the plant may become woody and tough. Gently loosen soil around the base and pull upward; twist or cut off green tops 1-2 inches above the root to prevent bleeding. Store roots in a cool (32-40°F), humid place; they keep for 2-3 months if properly cured and stored. The striped pattern is only visible when sliced open.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Candy Striped beets (Chioggia) originated in the Italian region of Chioggia near Venice, earning them the alternate name 'Chioggia beets' or 'Italian striped beets.'
- 🌱 The distinctive candy-striped pattern with concentric red and white rings develops fully only underground—the root exterior is solid dark red, making the interior a delightful surprise when sliced open.
- 🌱 Unlike red beets, Candy Striped varieties produce minimal 'bleeding' when cooked, as the pigmentation doesn't leach out as readily, keeping them visually striking on the plate.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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