Swiss Chard — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 5–10 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 10–29.4 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 50–60 |
| Measured from | Seed |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 22.9–30.5 |
| Mature height (cm) | 45.7–61 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 30.5–45.7 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 2–11 |
| Light | Partial sun |
| Water | Moderate |
| Sowing method | Direct sow |
Growing directions
Direct-sow seeds 1/2 inch deep in fertile, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil in full sun to partial shade as early as spring soil can be worked; Swiss chard is the most heat-tolerant and adaptable of the cool-season leafy greens, bridging the gap between the cool spring lettuce season and the fall crops by continuing to produce through summer heat that would bolt most other leafy greens. Each chard seed cluster contains 2–4 seeds; thin to one seedling per 9–12 inches. Harvest outer leaves continuously, leaving the growing center to continue producing — a well-tended planting can produce for 6 months or more. Rainbow chard types with red, orange, yellow, and pink stems are highly ornamental as well as edible. Mildly earthy flavor that is more versatile than spinach.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0