At a Glance
Chard , also known as Swiss chard orleaf beet , is a versatile andnutritious leafy greenthat is easy to originate in most garden . Whether you ’re a tiro orexperienced nurseryman , this comprehensive guide will ply you with all the entropy you need to successfully seed chard and love its bountiful harvest .
Choosing the Right Seeds
The first step tosowing chardis choosing the right seeds . There are many dissimilar varieties of chard available , each with its ownunique characteristics . Some pop assortment admit :
Whenselecting seeds , view your clime , the sizing of your garden , and your personal preferences .
Preparing the Soil
Chard prefers well - drained soilthat is fertile inorganic matter . Before sowing , develop the soil by :
Sowing the Seeds
Once the dirt is prepared , you canbegin sowingthe seed . Here are the step to follow:1 . Create rows : Mark outshallow furrowsin the soil , spacing them 12 - 18 inches apart.2 . Sow the seed : Sow theseeds thinlyin the furrows , space them about 2 - 3 inches apart.3 . shroud the seeds : Gently coverthe seeds with athin layerof soil.4 . body of water : Water thesoil lightlyto settle the seeds .
Germination and Care
Chard seed typically germinate within 7 - 10 days . Once theseedlings emerge , supply them withregular wateringand fear :
Harvesting
Chard is quick to harvest when the leaves are large and tender . You canharvest case-by-case leavesor the entire plant . Toharvest leaves , merely cut back them off at the base of the industrial plant . To harvest the total works , cut it off at the ground story .
Storing
Fresh chard can be stash away in the refrigerator for up to a week . envelop the leaves in adamp newspaper publisher towelor position them in aplastic bagwith a few holes for airing .
Troubleshooting
Here are somecommon problemsyou may encounter when growing chard :
Tips for Growing Chard
Ending Note: A Bountiful Harvest of Chard
With right care and attention , you’re able to enjoy abountiful harvestof chard throughout the growing season . Whether you ’re using it in salad , soups , or stir - fries , chard is a versatile andnutritious vegetablethat will add flavor and energy to your diet .
Questions You May Have
1 . How often should I irrigate chard?Water chard regularly , especially during hot anddry weather . Avoid overwatering , as this can head to rootle rot.2 . How do I thin chard seedlings?Once the seedlings have developed their first set oftrue leaves , thin them out to a spacing of 6 - 8 inches.3 . How long does it take for chard to mature?Chard is ready to harvest in about 60 - 70 day from sowing.4 . Can Igrow chardin containers?Yes , chard can be grown in container . select a container that is at least 12inches deepand has drain holes.5 . What is the best direction to stash away chard?Fresh chard can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week . Wrap the leaves in adamp newspaper towelor set them in aplastic bagwith a few holes for ventilation .
