This must be one of the most prettiest vegetables you can grow, with beautiful coloured stalks . The leaves can be used in salads when picked young or cooked when mature. Rich in beta carotene calcium, iron & folic acid.
 
When to Sow: Mar-Jul
 
HOW TO SOW CHARD:
Sow indoors - In pots or modules of moist well drained compost and cover with a 2cm of soil . Ideal Temp 18°C. Transplant when large enough to handle and grow on until plants are robust enough to withstand pests and harden off before planting out to final positions 20cm appart after all danger of frost has passed.
 
Direct sow - 2cm deep into a prepared seed bed, sow thicker for baby leaves and 20cm apart for large leaves.
 
Classification: Hardy Biennial
Group: Greens & Brassicas
Germination Time: 2-3 weeks
Harvest Time: Jun- Sep
 
Site: Full Sun/ Partial shade
Soil Type: Will grow in most soils
Soil Acidity: Alkaline/ Neutral
Moisture: Well drained
Care: Water well to reduce bitterness and remove flowers to prolong cropping period
Harvest: Baby leaves can be picked regularly a few from each plant which will promote fresh growth and extend the cropping season. Harvest large leaves as required.
 
Days to Maturity: 84 Days
Feed: Liquid Feed
Plant Spacing: 20cm