Swiss Chard
Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla

Swiss Chard Plant

Swiss chard is a biennial, 12-24 inches tall, and frost-tolerant. It prefers well-drained, fertile soil in full sun to partial shade. Keep the soil moist. Swiss chard is both edible and has medicinal properties.

Picture illustrating Swiss Chard plant
 

Habit

Biennial

Height

0.5-1 m

Growth

Fast

Soil

Well Drained, Fertile

Shade

Full Sun to partial shade

Moisture

Moist

Edible

Yes

Medicinal

Yes

Origin

Mediterranean

Climatic Condition

Temperate, Subtropical

Temperature (°)

15-24°C

Humidity (%)

60-75%

Potting media

Loamy, peat

Fertilizers

Balanced NPK (10-10-10)

Watering

Regular, deep watering

Plant Weight 

200-500 g

Flowering Time

Spring, Summer

Soil Ph level

6.0 - 7.0

Water Ph level

6.0 - 7.0

Soil EC

1-2 dS/m

Yield Per Plant 

Leafy greens

NPK ratio 

05:10:10

life Span

Annual

Health Benefits

High in vitamins and minerals

Suggested Grow Media or Potting Mix ?

40% compost, 30% peat moss, 30% perlite


Suggested Fertigation/Fertilizers

Fertilize every 2 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.

Common Diseases and Remedies

Bacterial leaf spot , cercospora leaf spot 

water soaked lesions , distorted leaves

Remove infected leaves , avoid water splash 

Plantamycin , propicanazole 

 

What Is The Swiss Chard?
Chard (Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla) is a green leafy vegetable known for its large, dark green leaves and colorful stems. Closely related to beets and spinach, it is popular for its mild, slightly earthy flavor.
a close up of a green leafy plant in a garden

What Are The Different Types Of Chard?

Ruby Chard:

Features deep red stems and veins with dark green leaves.

Rainbow Chard:
Stems and leaves in a variety of bright colors, including red, orange, yellow, and pink, and dark green leaves.

Fordhook Giant Chard:
 Features wide, smooth leaves and white stems.
green plant on black pot

How do you care for chard?

Location
Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.

Sunlight
For optimal growth, provide at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight each day.

Soil
 Plant in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.

Hydration
Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, watering liberally when the top inch of soil feels dry.
a close up of a green leafy plant in a field

Nourishment
Fertilize every 4 to 6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth.

Issues
Be careful of pests such as aphids and leafminer flies, and diseases such as spot and downy mildew. Use biological pest control methods when necessary.

What Are The Benefits Of The Chard?
Rich in vitamins and minerals: Chard is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and iron.
Antioxidant properties: High antioxidant content protects cells from free radical damage.
Rich in Fiber: Chard contains fiber, which supports digestion and promotes gut health.
Regulating Blood Sugar Levels: Some studies suggest that compounds in chard may help regulate blood sugar levels, which may have a positive effect on people with diabetes or insulin resistance.
a close up of a bunch of red and green vegetables

FAQs About Growing Swiss Chard 

When is the best time to plant chard?

 Chard is best planted in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest.

How far apart should I plant chard plants?
Place plants 6 to 12 inches apart in rows 18 to 24 inches apart.

How often should I water my chard?
Water your chard regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Water generously when the soil surface feels dry.

How do I harvest chard leaves without damaging the plant?
To harvest chard, cut off the outer leaves at the base of the stem and continue to grow the inner leaves.

Kale
Brassica oleracea var. acephala