Description
Mamma mia, nothing beets these beauties! The flesh is very tender, mild, and sweet. The sugar caramelizes when roasted and makes the beets irresistibly delicious. Gorgeous candy-striped interior is very attractive and even gets kids interested in eating them. Amend neutral-to-slightly alkaline soil with well-rotted compost, work the soil deeply and remove any rocks or sticks. Thin early for best results. Frost-hardy. Photo courtesy of Baker Creek Heirloom Seed.
- Days to germinate: 14-21
- Days to maturity: 60
- Start indoors: Not recommended.
- Sow outdoors 3-4 weeks before last frost of spring, or in late summer for a fall crop.
- Seed spacing: 1-2” apart, then thin seedlings to 3-5” apart. Use thinnings for salad
- Seed depth: ½”
- Produce size: Best when harvested at 2-3” in diameter
- Yield: 1 root per plant
- Mature plant height: 10-12”
- Suitable for container growing: Yes
- Year of discovery: Approximately 1830; named after an Italian fishing village
Tools & Supplies
Having the proper tools and supplies when growing your own can make the difference between a good harvest and a great harvest! Here's a list that our experts recommend for this variety.