Chioggia beet is the most whimsical veggie in the patch!

Slice the roots open to reveal concentric rings of pink and white, and this beautiful variety adds pop to salads and pickles. Chioggia beet originated in the fishing town of Chioggia, Italy, just across the lagoon from Venice.

When introduced here in the states, the Chioggia beet was only sold at upscale markets. The unique rings were an artistic departure from the typical red beet and today the Chioggia beet remains a popular choice for market farmers. The root tuber flavor is remarkably mellow and the greens are crisp with a very tender, mild, and sweet flavor.

Planting instructions: Beets are a cool season crop plant, best planted in early spring – about 4 weeks before the average date of last frost. A second planting midsummer will yield a fall harvest. Beets can tolerate a little shade, and they prefer rich, loose soil.

Place seeds one inch deep about 2 inches apart and cover with rich soil or compost.