did you know?

Swiss chard and beets are examples of selection and breeding of the same plant for different characteristics. While chard has been grown for its nutritious leaves and stems for hundreds of years, beets were bred for their large, sweet roots.

general maintenance:

Chard, like beets, will sprout several plants from one "seed," so thin young plants 6?8 inches apart. Remove any flower stalks that appear.

pests/diseases:

Flea beetles, leafhoppers, and aphids may occur.

controls:

Healthy plants can tolerate a few leaf holes. Use floating row covers to shield plants from insect pests.

how to sow/plant:

Direct sow in spring when danger of frost has passed, 1/2?1 inch deep and 2?3 inches apart in rows spaced 15?18 inches apart. Thin to 6?8 inches.

water and fertilize:

To avoid fibrous, bitter leaves, keep evenly moist and mulch to conserve moisture. Water with compost or manure tea every 4 weeks.

garden hint:

Red-chard cultivars are more sensitive to early frosts than green ones, and they tend to bolt and produce seed earlier. Avoid this by waiting a little longer before starting them.

features:

• Frost Tolerant
• Heirloom

garden uses:

• Flowerbed borders

other uses:

• Culinary/Edible