Chard is an easy to grow beet relative and is also know as Swiss chard, grown for its stems and leaves. Chard produces for many months, the leaves have thick, often beautifully colored midribs. The plant is attractive for an ornamental pot. There is a variety of cultivars. Typically chard has white colored midribs, but some have ruby red or rainbow colors. Organic cultivars are available.

Ideal Location- Chard will grow in most soils and will even grow in salt-laden winds (ideal for seaside gardens) and tolerate some shade. It is a good winter crop, which can be grown in an unheated greenhouse or hoop house. Prior to planting apply a low-fertility soil improver if soil was amended with compost from a previous crop. Otherwise use a medium-fertility soil improver or a low-fertility material with a nitrogen rich organic fertilizer. Some chard cultivars make beautiful container plants

Seed to Harvest- 8-12 weeks

Cultivation- The minimum germination temperature for chard is 47F (8C). When sowing under cover sow individual seeds in cell packs during March and April. The seeds are multi-germed with several seedlings emerging from a single seed. Thin to the strongest seedling or transplant as a clump for a cutting as a seedling crop. Harden off before planting outside. For a winter crop sow undercover in August; for a seedling crop broadcast thinly in early autumn.

When sowing directly outdoors, station-sow about half a thumb deep in March and April for a summer crop. Sow in July and August to produce over winter and for the following spring.

Spacing- Row planting 9in x 18in (23cm x 45cm) Block planting 12in. (30cm)

 

 

Plant Care- Water if necessary in dry weather. Mulch to retain some moisture. Over-wintered can stand some winters unprotected but give a finer crop the protection of cloches or row covers .

Problems- Beet leaf miner.

Harvesting- Pick leaves from the outside as soon as they are large enough. Rejuvenate older plants by cutting all the leaves off just above the soil. Cutting crops are soon ready; take the first cut about 2in (5cm tall.) Allow the chard to grow slightly taller for the second cut.

Nutrients- Swiss chard is truly one of the vegetable valedictorians with its exceptionally impressive list of health promoting nutrients. Chard is a source of vitamin A,B1,B2,B3,B5,B6, C, E,K, calcium, manganese, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, copper, zinc, folate, biotin, iron , protein, dietary fiber, and tryptophan