Rainbow Mixture Swiss Chard Seeds
Rainbow Mixture Swiss Chard Seeds
This assortment of Swiss chard presents a vibrant spectrum of colors, making it an ideal choice for those who find it challenging to settle on just one option. Harvesting the tender baby leaves of Rainbow Swiss chard adds a burst of color to any salad, with stems and veins displaying hues ranging from red to gold to pink, alongside numerous other shades. It typically takes around 35 days to harvest the baby leaves and 60 days for the chard to reach full maturity.
Despite its name, Swiss chard traces its origins back to the Mediterranean region, where it has been utilized by both professional chefs and home cooks for centuries. In Mediterranean cuisine, Swiss chard is prized for its versatility, often incorporated into salads or used as a flavorful addition to soups and rice dishes. While its presence in the United States was initially documented in The American Farmer magazine, courtesy of Baltimore farmer Gideon Smith's experimental planting, it wasn't until the post-Civil War era that Swiss chard began to gain wider recognition and popularity.
Swiss chard's enduring appeal lies in its ability to lend a pop of color and flavor to a variety of culinary creations. The evolution of its usage from a mere curiosity to a sought-after ingredient reflects the growing appreciation for its unique qualities among American consumers. Today, Swiss chard remains a staple in many kitchens, cherished not only for its visual appeal but also for its distinct taste and versatility in cooking. Whether enjoyed raw in salads or cooked into hearty dishes, Swiss chard continues to captivate taste buds and inspire culinary creativity across the globe.
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How To Grow
How To Grow
Sowing: Plant rainbow Swiss chard seeds directly into the soil approximately one week after the last spring frost, ensuring they are buried about 1.3 centimeters deep in compost-enriched soil and exposed to full sunlight. For harvesting the entire plant, space the plants 10 to 12.7 centimeters apart, while for continuous harvesting of outer stalks, leave a distance of 20 to 25 centimeters between plants to allow for larger growth. To maintain a consistent supply throughout the summer, sow additional Swiss chard seeds every two weeks. Expect germination to occur within approximately one week. Swiss chard can withstand light frosts and can also be cultivated as a fall crop.
Growing: Maintain consistent moisture in the soil and ensure it remains free of weeds by applying a layer of mulch. Adequate moisture is particularly crucial during the initial stages of seedling growth.
Harvesting
Harvesting
Harvest individual leaves for greens once they reach a height of 15 to 20 centimeters. When harvesting the entire plant, cut it at the surface of the soil, leaving approximately 2.5 centimeters of stem intact to promote continued growth and subsequent harvests. Outer stalks can also be harvested individually, leaving the heart of the plant to continue growing.
Seed Saving
Seed Saving
Due to Swiss chard's wind-pollinated nature, it is essential to separate it from other chard and beet varieties by at least 322,000 centimeters to maintain genetic purity. Chard plants need to endure winter conditions to produce seeds. In warmer climates, mulch the plants, while in cooler climates, dig up the roots and store them in sand, ensuring they do not touch, in a cool and humid environment. Replant the roots in early spring. When spring arrives, allow the plants to go to seed, ensuring the seed heads are fully mature and dry before removing them. Rainbow Swiss chard seeds will readily come off the stems once completely dry. Store the seeds in a cool, dry location for up to five years.
Extra Facts
Extra Facts
Planting Methods: Indoor, Outdoor
Blooming Season: Late Spring or Early Summer
Planting Season: Spring, Fall
Latin Name/USDA Zones: Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla/ 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Sunlight Required/ Height: Full Sun/ 45-60 cm
Shelf Life After Test Date: Rainbow Mixture Swiss Chard seeds maintain viability for several years if stored properly. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. While germination rates may decrease over time, a germination test can ensure successful planting.
Seed Type: Open-Pollinated
Soil Type: Rainbow Mixture Swiss Chard thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0. Enrich with organic matter, and maintain consistent moisture. Adaptable to various soils, it flourishes best when free from debris. Optimal soil conditions contribute to healthy and vibrant chard plants.