How To Grow Chard

Updated on

November 29, 2023

Growing Chard

Chard is a variety of beet native to the Mediterranean region. It is an important cooking green in many parts of the world and is widely used in Italian, French, and German cuisine. It has a mildly sweet, earthy flavor and is usually cooked down to develop its characteristic savory and bitter flavors. The leaves are large, dark green, and succulent, while the stems are crunchy and bright white. It is highly nutritious, containing many vitamins and minerals, as well as fiber and protein.

A Cheatsheet for Growing Chard

Choose a Spot

🌞 Find a sunny location with well-draining soil.

Sow the Seeds

🌱 Plant chard seeds 1/2 inch deep, 12 inches apart.

Water Consistently

💧 Keep the soil moist, but avoid overwatering.

Fertilize Regularly

🌿 Feed with organic compost every 4-6 weeks.

Harvest Continuously

🔪 Cut outside leaves when they reach 6-8 inches long.

Use Nutritious Leaves

🥗 Chard is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, plus iron and fiber.

Prolong the Harvest

⏳ Remove flowers to prevent bolting and extend the season.

Enjoy Chard's Versatility

🍽️ Cook it, add to salads, or use as a wrap substitute.

Achieve Self-Sufficiency

🌱 Growing chard reduces grocery bills and promotes sustainability.

Getting Started with Growing Chard

So, you want to grow chard? Excellent choice! This leafy green is not only delicious, but it's also a cinch to grow. Let me share with you my tried and true tips for successfully growing chard in your garden.

1. Choosing the Right Varieties of Chard

When it comes to chard, there are many beautiful and tasty varieties to choose from. Some of my favorites include:

Bright Lights: This variety boasts vibrant stems in a range of colors, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.
Fordhook Giant: If you're looking for a chard that produces large, tender leaves, look no further than Fordhook Giant.
Ruby Red: As the name suggests, this variety has stunning ruby red stems that add a pop of color to any garden.

Whichever variety you choose, make sure to select healthy young plants or start your chard from seeds. Chard is a cool-season crop, so be mindful of the appropriate planting time based on your climate.

2. Preparing the Soil

Chard thrives in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. Before planting, amend the soil with compost or aged manure to provide the necessary nutrients for your chard to flourish. Break up any clumps and remove weeds to ensure your chard has the best growing conditions.

Fun Fact: Did you know that chard is an excellent source of vitamins A, K, and C? Not only will you have a bountiful harvest, but you'll also be treating your body to a nutritional powerhouse!

3. Planting Chard

Once your soil is ready, it's time to plant your chard. Space the plants about 12-18 inches apart, ensuring they have enough room to grow. Gently cover the roots with soil and give them a good watering. Remember, chard loves moisture, so keep the soil consistently moist throughout the growing season.

4. Nurturing Your Chard

Chard is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but it still appreciates some TLC. Here are a few tips to help your chard thrive:

Keep it weed-free: Weeds compete with chard for nutrients and water, so make sure to keep them in check.
Apply mulch: A layer of organic mulch will help retain moisture, control weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Fertilize: Chard is a heavy feeder, so give it a boost with a balanced organic fertilizer every few weeks.
Water consistently: As mentioned before, chard loves moisture, so don't let the soil dry out completely.

5. Harvesting Your Chard

When your chard plants are about 8-10 inches tall, it's time to start harvesting. Simply cut the outer leaves at the base, leaving the center intact for continued growth. Chard leaves can be eaten raw in salads or cooked in a variety of dishes. The more you harvest, the more your chard will produce!

Insightful Statistic: Did you know that chard can be grown and harvested throughout the year by staggering planting times? This means a continuous supply of fresh chard for your kitchen!

6. Pests and Diseases

While chard is generally resilient, it can still fall victim to a few pests and diseases. Keep an eye out for common culprits like aphids, slugs, and leaf miners. Regularly inspect your plants and take appropriate measures to control these pests. Powdery mildew can also be an issue in humid conditions, so ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.

7. Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor

Now that you know the ins and outs of growing chard, it's time to reap the rewards. Use your fresh chard in salads, sautés, soups, or even try your hand at delicious Swiss chard rolls. The possibilities are endless!

Remember, gardening is a journey of experimentation and discovery, so don't be afraid to try new things and adapt your approach. Happy growing, fellow gardeners!

FAQ

1. When should I plant chard?

Start growing chard in early spring or late summer.

2. How much sunlight does chard need?

Chard thrives with full sun or partial shade.

3. What type of soil is suitable for chard?

Well-draining soil enriched with compost is ideal for growing chard.

4. How often should I water chard plants?

Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soaked.

5. Can chard tolerate frost?

Yes, chard handles mild frost well, making it suitable for cool weather.

6. How long does it take for chard to mature?

Chard typically matures in 45-60 days after planting.

7. Do I need to fertilize chard?

Yes, apply a balanced organic fertilizer every 4-6 weeks.

8. Can chard be grown in containers?

Absolutely! Chard is a great container-friendly vegetable.

9. Should I harvest the entire chard plant or just the leaves?

You can harvest individual leaves or harvest the whole plant at once.

10. How do I store harvested chard?

Keep chard leaves in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to a week.

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Chard is a great vegetable to add to any garden or meal! Chard is a great source of essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin K, vitamin A, and magnesium, as well as being a good source of dietary fiber. It also has a mild flavor and pleasant texture, making it a versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes both raw and cooked. Chard makes a fantastic addition to salads, stir-fries, soups, pastas, and much more.