Title: How to Grow Swiss Chard?
1HOW TO GROW SWISS CHARD?
2Introduction
Welcome to our guide on how to grow Swiss chard!
This presentation will explore the essentials of
cultivating this versatile and nutritious leafy
green. Swiss chard, known for its colorful stems
and flavorful leaves, is a rewarding addition to
any garden or container. Whether you are a
seasoned gardener or a beginner, this guide will
equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to
grow your vibrant Swiss chard. Let's dive in and
discover the joys of cultivating this delicious
and healthful vegetable.
3Swiss Chard Varieties
With ruby red stems and crumpled green leaves,
this variety offers a robust flavor with hints of
earthiness, perfect for salads and cooked dishes.
1. Rhubarb Chard
Known for its vibrant multi-colored stems, this
chard has tender leaves and deep red stalks.
Resistant to bolting and insects, it's excellent
for young salads and adds color to any dish.
2. Bright Lights
This chard keeps its bright orange stems even
when cooked. Its savoyed green leaves offer a
slightly sweet flavor, complementing its broad,
crisp stems.
3. Orange Fantasia
4Growing Components of Swiss Chard
5How to Grow Swiss Chard in Containers?
- Growing Swiss chard in a container is an
excellent way to enhance the aesthetics of any
patio, room, or garden. - Here are the steps to get started
- Choose a container that is at least 12 inches
broad and 8 inches deep. - Fill the container with all-purpose potting soil
and sow the seeds. - Plant the seeds ½ inch deep and spaced by 1 to
2.5 cm. - Space the seeds 6-12 inches apart and plant them
a quarter inch deep in the soil. - Use a watering can with spaced holes to moisten
the potting mix. - Once the seedlings emerge, thin them out, leaving
plants 2-3 inches apart. - Swiss chard is ready to harvest within 4-6 weeks.
6How to Plant Swiss Chard?
- Plant chard seeds approximately ½ inch deep,
spacing them 1-2 inches apart. - Once seedlings have developed their first few
leaves, thin them out to 8-12 inches apart. - Prior to sowing seeds or transplanting, apply a
23-inch layer of fresh compost to the soil. - Use a dibber to create planting holes that are ½
inch deep. - Place one seed in each hole, ensuring they are at
least 8 inches apart. - Plant seeds in rows spaced 18-24 inches apart
chard grows rapidly from seed clusters. - When seed clusters produce multiple seedlings,
thin them to the strongest one when plants reach - about 3 inches in height.
- Remove weaker seedlings by snipping them at the
soil level with small scissors. - Ensure seeds remain well-watered during the
germination period.
7Chard Growing Stages
Seedling Stage
1
Starts as a seed grows true leaves in 2-3 weeks.
Vegetative Stage
2
Focuses on leaf and root growth for several weeks.
Bolting Stage
3
Shifts to seed production and flowering due to
rising temperatures.
Flowering Stage
4
Produces small flowers on a central stalk
harvest before bitterness.
Seed Production Stage
5
Seeds develop on the flower stalk harvest when
mature for saving.
8How to Harvest Chard?
Timing
Whole Plant Harvest
Leaf Harvesting
Harvest chard when leaves reach 6-8 inches in
length.
Use scissors to cut leaves at the base, starting
from the outer ones.
Leave inner leaves and growing points for
continuous growth.
Regular Harvesting
Storage
Store harvested leaves in the refrigerator for up
to a week in a plastic bag lined with a damp
paper towel.
For whole-plant harvest, cut at ground level when
the plant is 12-18 inches tall.
9How to Store Chard?
Trimming
Remove rubber bands or ties around the chard
bunch. Trim off any damaged or wilted leaves.
Cleaning
Rinse the chard under cold water to remove dirt
or debris. Shake off excess water or pat it dry
with paper towels.
Refrigerate
Store in a perforated plastic bag or using a
moist paper towel and an airtight container in
the vegetable crisper for up to a few days.
Freeze
Blanch, dry, and store in freezer-safe bags or
containers for longer-term storage for up to
several months.
10FAQs
Q. Does Swiss chard grow all summer?
Swiss chard is a cool-season plant that tolerates
moderate heat but will bolt (go to seed) in
warmer weather. It grows best in spring and fall
cooler temperatures, although with proper care
and attention, it can continue to produce
throughout the summer.
Q. How long does it take for chard to grow?
Swiss chard typically takes about 50 to 60 days
to reach maturity from the time of planting.
Q. What month do you plant Swiss chard?
Swiss chard is best planted in early spring,
around March or April, depending on your location
and climate.
11Thank you
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info_at_homegrownoutlet.com?
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