Are you ready to grow your own Swiss Chard? Swiss Chard is a delicious and nutritious vegetable that can be grown in virtually any backyard. Whether you’re growing it for yourself or for sale, timing the planting can be tricky. Knowing when to grow Swiss Chard can make a big difference in the quality and yield of your crop.
When to plant Swiss Chard depends on your location and climate. In general, it is best to plant Swiss Chard in late spring or early summer – when the weather is warm and the soil is ready. If you live in a warmer region, opt to successively sow your Swiss Chard seeds so that you can enjoy a steady harvest. In cooler regions, Swiss Chard can be planted as early as February, with successive sowings to extend the harvest.
Swiss Chard prefers a rich, well-draining soil, and can tolerate a pH range anywhere from 6.0 to 7.5. Prior to planting, add a generous layer of compost to the soil to add nutrients and improve drainage. Loosen the soil up to 8 inches deep and mix in any fertilizer or amendments you wish to use.
If you opt to direct seed Swiss Chard into the garden, sow the seeds 1/2 inch deep and 1-2 inches apart, then thin as the plants grow. If transplanting, you can start Swiss Chard in flats or containers indoors, then transplant into the garden when the temperatures are mild. Plant the transplants at least 8 inches apart.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try your hand at succession planting. This allows you to stagger the harvest season and enjoy your Swiss Chard all summer long! Simply create new planting beds for your second and third crop within 7-10 days of your first planting. This gives the seeds a few extra weeks to mature and your plants a few extra weeks of sunshine.
Growing Swiss Chard is easy and rewarding, so don’t be afraid to get started. With a little bit of knowledge and the perfect timing, you can have an endless harvest of succulent chard!
No matter where you live or what temperature extreme your garden is subjected to, there’s a sweet spot for growing Swiss Chard. In general, aim for a late spring or early summer planting. Create a nutrient-rich and well-draining soil, and consider succession planting for a longer harvest season. With these tips in mind, you can have fresh, nutritious Swiss Chard all summer long!