Swiss Chard Growing Guide
Swiss chard is a leafy green in the beet family grown for its large, crinkled leaves and thick, colorful stalks. It is one of the most heat-tolerant leafy greens, producing well into summer when lettuce and spinach bolt.
Growing Conditions
Soil Requirements
Soil Type & pH
Best soil types: loam, clay loam, silt loam
pH range: 6 - 7.5 (optimal: 6.5)
Drainage: good
Nutrient Needs (N-P-K)
Planting Guide
Yield & Economics
Common Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
- leaf miner
- aphids
- flea beetle
- slugs
Common Diseases
- cercospora leaf spot
- downy mildew
- damping off
Use to identify issues early and prevent crop losses.
Growing Tips
Harvest outer leaves at 20-25 cm tall, leaving the center rosette intact for continuous production over many months.
Swiss chard tolerates both heat and light frost, making it a reliable season-spanning crop where lettuce and spinach fail.
Rainbow chard varieties with red, orange, and yellow stalks command premium prices at farmers markets.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Swiss Chard take to grow?
Swiss Chard typically takes 55 days from planting to harvest. Seeds germinate in about 7 days. The best planting season is spring, late summer.
What soil does Swiss Chard need?
Swiss Chard grows best in loam, clay loam, silt loam soil with a pH of 6-7.5. Good drainage is required.
What temperature does Swiss Chard need?
Swiss Chard grows best at 15-25°C. Frost tolerance: moderate. Heat tolerance: moderate.
What is the expected yield for Swiss Chard?
Swiss Chard yields approximately 20,000 kg/hectare under good conditions. Multiple harvests per year are possible (2).
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