To grow swiss chard, you need to choose a suitable site which should preferably have well drained loamy soils which receive full sun to partial shade with a soil pH range of between 6.0 to 7.0 for optimal growth.
Field management practices
Soil preparation. Prepare the soil by tilling it to a depth of 6 to 8 inches. Incorporate organic matter like compost to enhance soil fertility, structure and water retention. Remove debris and rocks to create an ideal environment for your swiss chard.
Seed selection and planting. Obtain high quality seed from a reputable source. You can plant the seeds in the nursery or plant them directly in the field.
The seeds are planted at a depth of about half inches and spaced at an intra row spacing of between 2 to 4 inches and inter row spacing of 12 to 18 inches.
Fertilization. Regularly feed swiss chard with balanced fertilizers like compost or general purpose fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks.
Harvesting. Swiss chard is harvested as soon as the leaves attain a useful size usually between 6 to 8 inches in length. Gently cut off the outer leaves at the base of the stem allowing the central growth point to remain undamaged.
