Swiss Chard Seed

Chard is best direct sown in Spring to early Summer while soil warmed but not hot (50-75 F is best). Plant 1/2 inch deep in rows 18-24 inches apart. Plant closely to later thin 6-10 inches apart (use the thinned plants as baby greens). Chard has good tolerance to hot weather, but the best results are grown in cool to moderate temperatures. Chard is great at all stages of growth: clipped as a 'baby' for fresh greens/salad use; young stalks cooked like asparagus; mature leaves cooked like spinach; and larger/mature stalks can be battered and fried to make great fritters.