Seed Specifications:

Use 6 seeds/ft, 24” row spacing.

Chard appreciates loose well drained soils with acidity between 6.2 and 6.8, but will tolerate 6.0-7.5 and a wide range of soil textures. Heavy clay soils can be helped by the addition of organic matter. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 55-75°F.Fertilize with the ratio of 1-2-2 (N-P-K) seven days before seeding. 1-3 side dressings may be necessary.

Seeding Depth: ½”

Plant Spacing: Direct seeding: For baby leaf sow ~40 seeds/ft in 2-4” bands; for full size leaves thin plants to 4-8" depending on desired leaf size.

Row Spacing: Row spacing: for full size 18-24", for baby leaf 2-4” between bands.

When to Sow: Chard can be direct seeded mid-spring through mid-summer and into fall in warmer regions. Transplants can be started indoors or in a cold frame 4-6 weeks before planting and transplanted outdoors after danger of frost has passed. Transplants result in earlier harvests. Optimal germination temperature is 55-75°F. Days to maturity from direct seeding; if transplanting, subtract 14-21 days. Grows well in summer months when it is too hot for lettuce. Sow every week for a continual summer harvest until 4 weeks before frost date. Ready to harvest after five weeks, when leaves are ~3”, growth rate is weather dependent.

Harvest: Harvest full size leaves at any stage. Continuous harvests will encourage new growth. Use floating row covers to extend the season.

Storage: Cool with water immediately after harvest; stores best in plastic bags in the refrigerator.