Swiss chard

Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris (Cicla Group) · Vegetable

Quick answer: Water: Every 2–3 days in summer, when the top 1 in is dry (estimated); about 1 in per week. Light: Full sun to partial shade; best 6–8 hours, at least 4–6. Soil: Fertile, well-drained, pH 6.0–7.0. Pets: Chard is generally not considered toxic to cats and dogs, though its oxalate content means large amounts are best avoided. If in doubt, ask your vet.

One of the easiest leafy greens, with glossy leaves and stems in white, red or yellow. It tolerates both heat and light frost, so a single sowing can be picked for months. It looks good enough for flower beds and grows well in pots.

Care at a glance

Light

Full sun to partial shade; best 6–8 hours, at least 4–6

Water

About 1 in per week

Soil

Fertile, well-drained, pH 6.0–7.0

Temperature

Best 50–75 °F (estimated); survives light frost

Spacing

8–12 in in the row, 18 in between rows

Container

At least 2 gallons, 8 in deep

Harvest

Baby leaves in 30 days (estimated), full leaves in 50–70 days

Lifespan

Biennial, grown as an annual

When?

Sow outdoors 2–3 weeks before your last frost, or start indoors 4 weeks earlier. A second sowing in late summer gives an autumn and early-winter crop; in mild areas plants often survive the winter (estimated).

Step by step

1. Soak the seed clusters for a few hours to speed sprouting.
2. Sow 1/2 in deep, 2–3 in apart; each cluster holds several seeds.
3. Thin to 8–12 in apart once seedlings are 3 in tall; eat the thinnings.
4. Water regularly so leaves stay tender.
5. Side-dress with compost or a nitrogen-rich feed every 4–6 weeks.
6. Cut outer leaves about 2 in above the crown, leaving the central bud to keep producing.
7. Remove any flower stalk that appears to extend the harvest.

Common problems

Pets

Chard is generally not considered toxic to cats and dogs, though its oxalate content means large amounts are best avoided. If in doubt, ask your vet.

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