Sowing The Seed
Swiss Chard seeds can be sown either indoors, or directly outdoors. If started indoors, begin by soaking the seeds in hot water for roughly 20 minutes. Next, sow the seeds in peat pots, at a depth of 1/2" under topsoil, 6 to 8 weeks prior to the last frost. Transplant entire peat pots or direct sow outdoors after all danger of frost has passed. Check "Germination & Growth" for spacing specifications.
Growing Conditions
Swiss Chard will do best in an area of full sunlight, however they will tolerate a bit of light shade. Temperatures should be around 60F to 70F for optimal germination and growth. Provide a rich, moist soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 6.8, just make sure that the medium is well drained. To increase drainage, we recommend adding a light compost to areas containing hard, compact soil. This will also aid in preventing diseases to the leaves. Water daily with a light setting, never allowing the soil to completely dry out.
Germination & Growth
Swiss Chard seeds will begin to sprout open in roughly 7 to 14 days after sowing. The plants will grow to a mature height of 20 inches tall, producing 10 inch stalks in colors or red, yellow, orange, pink & white. Sow seeds 4 inches apart from one another, in rows spaced about 12 to 18 inches apart. It might help to sow 2 seeds together, plucking the weaker of the two once established.
Harvesting
Clip baby leaves 30 days after first sprouts appear, or clip adult leaves roughly 60 days after first sprouts. New leaves will establish, producing multiple harvests through the spring, summer and fall months. All thats left now is to enjoy the delicious greens of this popular heirloom Swiss Chard.
