Beet - Guardsmark Chioggia (Organic)

Guardsmark Chioggia - This beet is an improved strain of the Italian heirloom Chioggia beet. It was improved to increase uniformity and bolt tolerance. The interior has a unique interior of red and white stripes. Planting Tips Hardy biennial that tolerates light frosts. Prefers cooler temperatures and a light loamy soil. Moist but not wet soil with a pH above 6.0 is best for this plant. Direct sow seeds as soon as soil can be worked. Thin the plants to ensure a space of 2 - 3” between individual beets. Sow every 3 weeks through late summer for a continued harvest. Seed Depth - ½”, Seed Spacing - 10 seeds/foot, Days to Germination - 7-14 days, Plant spacing - 2-3”, Row Spacing - 12-18”, Plant Height - 12”.

Saving Seeds Beets are biennial and will only seed after the second year of sowing. Beets also are wind pollinated so be conscious of other beets being planted to avoid cross pollination. Plants will flower in June/July. When seed spikes are dry and tan/brown in color, cut plants and allow to dry in a paper bag for two weeks.Once dry, rub spikes to release seeds. Store seeds in a cool dry place using paper envelopes for up to four years. Label all seeds.