Swiss chard are planted in an area with well drained loamy soil with a pH ranging from 6.0-7.0. Prepare the soil by tilling it to a depth of 6-8 inches, incorporating organic matter like compost and removing debris, rocks, and weeds to create an ideal environment for the swiss chard to thrive. Plant the swiss chard seeds in seed trays/pots filled with a seed starting mix ensuring that they are about 1/2 inch deep. The seeds should be spaced 2-4 inches apart in rows spaced 12-18 inches apart. Maintain consistent soil moisture ensuring it does not become waterlogged as swiss chard prefers even watering. Harvest swiss chard leaves by gently cutting off the outer leaves at the base of their stems.
Site selection, soil preparation, and planting.
Choose a suitable location for your swiss chard farm by opting for an area with well drained loamy soil that receives full sun to partial shade. Ensure the soil pH ranges from 6.0 – 7.0 for optimal growth. Prepare the soil by tilling it to a depth of 6-8 inches and incorporate organic matter like compost to enhance soil fertility, structure, and water retention. Remove debris, rocks, and weeds to create an ideal environment for your swiss chard to thrive. Begin planting the seeds indoors about 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost, or sow them directly outdoors after the frost danger has passed. Plant the seeds approximately 1/2 inch deep and space them 2-4 inches apart in rows spaced 12-18 inches apart.
Watering, fertilization, and harvesting.
Maintain consistent soil moisture ensuring it does not become waterlogged, swiss chard prefers even watering especially during dry periods. Regularly you feed your swiss chards with balanced fertilizers, and apply compost or a general purpose fertilizer every 4-6 weeks. Harvest your swiss chard leaves as soon as they attain a usable size, typically around 6-8 inches in length. Gently cut off the outer leaves at the base of their stems allowing the central growth point to remain undamaged. This ensures continuous leaf production throughout the growing season.
