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Swiss chard seeds germinate in soil temperatures ranging from 40–100°F, with an optimum temperature near 86°F. Seedlings can tolerate light frosts, and mature plants are hardy to moderate frosts, allowing them to overwinter in mild areas.
Swiss chard thrives in soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5 and prefers well-drained, fertile loam soil enriched with organic matter. Chard is adaptable, however, and can grow successfully across a variety of soil types and growing conditions.
Chard can be direct seeded ½ to 1 inch deep or transplanted when seedlings have developed 4 to 6 leaves. Plant in full sun where plants can receive approximately 8 to 10 hours of sunlight daily. Frequent irrigation is important to maintain consistent soil moisture throughout the growing season.
Direct Seeding: Sow beginning in midspring and continue into midsummer. In regions with mild winters, chard may also be planted for fall production.
Spacing can be adjusted depending on whether Swiss chard is being grown for mature bunching leaves or young salad greens.
Harvest the outer leaves first so the center of the plant can continue producing. Mature leaves are generally harvested when they reach approximately 8–12 inches long while they are still young and tender.
Multiple Harvests: For bunching or garden production, clip mature leaves individually and allow new leaves to continue developing. For baby-leaf production, young plants may be clipped just above the soil surface.
Swiss chard is typically harvested by hand and will continue producing until the plants begin to bolt or flower. Commercial growers may limit the number of harvests to maintain uniform leaf quality.
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