How to Grow Candystripe
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Candystripe
Unlikely to be a single species - typically refers to candy-striped varieties of plants
vegetableCandystripe typically refers to candy-striped varieties of vegetables, most commonly beets with distinctive red and white concentric rings when sliced. These heirloom varieties are prized for their ornamental appearance and sweet flavor. The name can apply to striped varieties of other root vegetables as well.
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Example Candystripe timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Candystripe
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 Candystripe
Around Jun 6≈ 50 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Candystripe dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9; prefers cooler seasons
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Germination & Seedling
2-3 weeksSmall leaves emerge 7-10 days after planting. Seedlings develop thin, delicate foliage and small tap roots beginning to form.
Keep soil consistently moist. Thin seedlings to proper spacing at 2-3 weeks. Protect from slugs and cutworms with row covers.
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksDevelops 4-6 true leaves above ground while the root begins swelling underground. The distinctive striping pattern begins forming internally.
Maintain consistent moisture to support uniform root expansion. Remove competing weeds. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and keep roots cool.
Root Development & Expansion
2-3 weeksVisible root shoulders emerge at soil surface showing the beginning of the red and white striping pattern. Foliage becomes fuller with 8-12 leaves.
Ensure adequate potassium and phosphorus for good root development. Water deeply and regularly. Do not allow soil to dry out completely or striping becomes uneven.
Mature Root Development
2-3 weeksRoots reach 2-3 inches in diameter with fully visible striped shoulders. Foliage is lush and green, preparing for harvest.
Maintain consistent watering schedule. Can begin harvesting when roots reach 1.5-2 inches for baby beets, or wait for full maturity at 2.5-3 inches.
Harvest
Harvest window varies; can harvest anytime after maturityRoots are fully mature with pronounced red and white striping visible on exposed shoulders. Foliage remains vibrant green.
Loosen soil before pulling to avoid breaking roots. Cut greens carefully if harvesting for use. Leave an inch of stem on the root to prevent bleeding.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove affected leaves; use row covers in early season; spinosad spray if severe
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Improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; remove infected foliage; crop rotation
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Row covers on seedlings; neem oil; diatomaceous earth; avoid brassicas nearby
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Handpick; beer traps; copper tape barriers; encourage ground beetles
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Increase humidity; spray with water; insecticidal soap if populations explode
Uses
Fresh & Roasted Preparation
CulinaryCandystripe beets are prized for their striking visual appearance when sliced, making them ideal for salads, garnishes, and plated dishes. Their sweet, earthy flavor intensifies when roasted or pickled. [source]
Beet Greens Cooking
CulinaryThe nutritious leafy tops can be sautéed, added to smoothies, or used in salads. These greens are rich in vitamins and minerals and shouldn't be discarded. [source]
Nutritional & Blood Health Support
MedicinalCandystripe beets contain nitrates and betalains that support cardiovascular health and blood pressure regulation. Traditionally used to support natural detoxification processes. [source]
Natural Food Coloring
HouseholdThe deep red pigments (betacyanins) can be extracted to create natural dyes and food colorings for desserts, beverages, and other culinary applications. [source]
Beneficial Insect Attraction
WildlifeCandystripe beet plants attract pollinators and beneficial insects when allowed to bolt and flower, supporting garden biodiversity. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest when roots are 1.5-3 inches in diameter for best flavor and texture. Pull gently or loosen soil first to avoid breaking the root. Baby beets (1-2 inches) can be harvested earlier. For the best striping display, cut the root in half or thin slices to reveal the concentric rings. The greens are also edible and nutritious—harvest these for cooking or salads. Store roots in a cool, dark place at 32-40°F for up to 3 months; remove most of the stem but leave an inch to prevent 'bleeding.'
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Candystripe beets are an heirloom Italian variety also known as 'Chioggia' beets, named after a fishing village in the Veneto region of Italy.
- 🌱 The distinctive red and white striping is caused by alternating layers of different pigment compounds—betacyanins (red) and betalains (white)—which form naturally as the root develops.
- 🌱 When cooked together with regular red beets, Candystripe beets can 'bleed' their color into other vegetables, so cook them separately to preserve the striking striped appearance.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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