Organic 'Chioggia Guardsmark' beetroot
Organic 'Chioggia Guardsmark' beetroot (Beta vulgaris) from the seed company Gaia, a sweet heritage variety with well-defined red and white rings
The 'Chioggia Guardsmark' beetroot develops vigorous plants with medium green foliage , borne on slightly reddish petioles , exhibiting regular and well-balanced growth. The roots are round and uniform , revealing superb, very distinct and decorative concentric red and white stripes when cut. The tender and juicy flesh offers a mild flavor , less earthy than that of many conventional red beets.
This Guardsmark selection has been improved to produce more uniform roots than traditional Chioggia, while retaining its distinctive appearance. It also boasts excellent bolting resistance , allowing for more flexible sowing in spring and autumn. Versatile, it can be harvested young for its delicate flavor or allowed to mature for meatier roots. The leaves are edible , adding further value to the crop.
Companion plants: Lettuce, Alliums, Bush beans, Brassicaceae (except mustard), Radish, Marigold, Catnip
Nefarious plants: Pole beans, Mustard family
Spread/Carry: Upright, compact
Plant height: 25 to 35 cm
Quantity per packet: Approximately 50 seeds
Certification: Certified organic
Special features: Improved heirloom Chioggia variety, very uniform roots, pronounced red and white stripes, high resistance to bolting, edible leaves
Leaf color: Medium green
Texture/flavor: Tender, soft, slightly sweet flesh
Cold tolerance: Down to -7°C
Farming method
Soak the seeds in lukewarm water for up to 12 hours to promote even germination. Sow directly outdoors once all risk of frost has passed, at a depth of 1.2 to 2 cm , in loose, deep, and well-drained soil . For autumn sowings, sow 6 to 8 weeks before the first frosts . Space plants 5 to 10 cm apart and rows 30 to 60 cm apart .
Beetroot prefers partial sun (level 1) and moderate watering (level 2) . Regular moisture promotes tender, well-formed roots.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest as needed , at the desired size, generally around 60 days after sowing , but earlier is possible for young beets. For storage, cut the leaves about 2.5 cm above the root , then store at 0°C , with a humidity of about 95% , in containers or bags that maintain humidity.
Usage ideas
• Raw beetroot slices for decoration
• Gentle cooking to preserve the rings
• Roasted or boiled
• Warm or cold salads
• Sautéed leaves or in soup
The ' Chioggia Guardsmark' beetroot combines visual appeal , natural sweetness , and reliable cultivation , offering a refined and consistent version of the classic Chioggia. An elegant heirloom variety, as enjoyable to grow as it is to cook with.
