Beetroot CRAPAUDINE
 
Also known as ‘Toad Beetroot’, this variety is the oldest still in existence (estimated at 1000 years!). Crapaudine translates as female toad in french. It’s not surprising then, that the skin is very rough and cracked, almost like tree bark. The carrot-shaped roots are extremely sweet and very dark, almost black in colour and the stalks are red tinged and are great in salads. Renowned for its superior flavour, ‘Rouge Crapaudine’ is sought after by chefs around the globe. We  are proud to offer you the chance to grow this exquisite heritage favourite.
 
Details:
Plant life cycle: Annual
Site: Full sun
Days to maturity:
Sow: 1/2" deep
Plant spacing:2-3" apart
Approx seeds per packet: 50
 
Health benefits
 
Crapaudine beetroots have folate and antioxidants present in them.
They contain phytonutrients called betanin which have anti-inflammatory properties and helps in detoxification.
They also provide vitamin C and B6.
Crapaudine beetroots contain potassium, manganese and fibre also.
 
SOWING:
 
Seeds can be sown as soon as the soil can be worked in the spring (April) and into late July.  Some people try to push the season even earlier by sowing in flats indoors and transplanting, but we are not those kinds of people. Direct seeding is strongly recommended.
 
Note: Beets prefer cooler ambient temperatures, light, sandy, and loamy soil, and an even watering schedule (do not let the soil dry out before emergence!). For baby beets and greens, seeds can be sown every 2 weeks until 2 months before your first projected heavy frost. 
 
 
 
FERTILITY:
Low to medium. While beets do prefer well-prepared and fertile (to avoid scab, make sure any addition of organic matter is well composted) soil, they will tolerate lower fertility. Aim for a neutral to slightly alkaline soil with a pH between 6.0-7.0. Acidic soils (pH below 6.0) are a no no for beets!
Specific minerals needed for quality beets are boron (most common mineral deficiency in beets), calcium, potassium, and magnesium. Aim for 1-2-2 (N-P-K) fertilizer one week before sowing. 
 
ADDITIONAL NOTES:
Remember that beets prefer cooler temperatures, even water, and space. Keep em weeded!
If you find that your beets are producing voluptuous greens and small roots, this means your soil is too heavy in Nitrogen. 
 
 
 
How to eat
If you are going to boil or roast the beets, you do not have to peel them first. It is advisable to brush off the sand first. You boil or roast the beet with the skin and can be peeled afterwards. If you would like to eat the beet raw, you can first peel them with a vegetable peeler and cut the ends off the beet.