Swiss Chard

Common Name: Swiss Chard

Scientific Name: Beta vulgaris var. cicla

USDA Hardiness Zones: n/a

Approximate number of seeds per gram (ounce) : 55 (1,575)

Sun: full sun

Water: water regularly, approximately 1 to 2 inches per week

Soil: plant 1/2 inch deep, prefers a rich, fertile, well-drained soil

Temperature: 12 to 24 degrees Celsius (55 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit)

Spacing: 2 inch spacing in rows about 12 inches apart, thin to 6 inches between plants once seedlings are 2 inches tall.

Germination Time: 1 to 2 weeks

Swiss chard is a cool season plant and is typically planted for spring or autumn harvests. Use mulch to help conserve soil moisture and fertilize a nitrogen-based fertilizer about 4 weeks after thinning to encourage growth. Practice good weed control. Harvest when leaves reach full size.

Swiss Chard (Beta vulgaris var. cicla)