Approximately 33-36 seeds per gram. Beta vulgaris Lot# SW34205 A great addition to any garden, “Ruby Red” Swiss Chard, also known as “Rhubarb” Swiss Chard, was first introduced in 1857. Originating from the Mediterranean region, this Heirloom variety produces bright candy apple red stalks and veins with crumpled, dark green leaves. Plants grow to an average height of 45-51cm (18-20”) tall with a spread of 45-61cm (18-24”) wide. Individual leaves can be harvested for greens as soon as they reach 15-20cm (6-8”) tall. You can harvest the whole plant at the surface of the soil, but to ensure continued growth and another harvest, leave an inch of stem. Outer stalks can also be harvested individually, leaving the heart to grow. Cook the stalks as you would asparagus and the leaves as you would spinach, or enjoy both raw in salads. Rhubarb Chard Swiss chard seeds sown too early in spring cause the plants to bolt quickly. Swill chard is a rich source of vitamins A, K, and C, and an excellent source of minerals, dietary fiber and protein.
Direct sow Swiss chard seeds about a week after the last spring frost. Plant 3-4 seeds 1cm (1/2") deep in compost-enriched soil in full sun and thin to the strongest plant per location. For harvesting the entire plant, space the plants 10-12cm (4-5") apart, or for continual harvesting of the outer stalks, space the plants 20-25cm (8-10") apart for larger growth. For a continuous summer crop, plant Swiss chard every two weeks. Germination should occur in about a week. Swiss chard can survive light frosts, and can be planted as a fall crop.
Height at Maturity: 45-51cm (18-20”) tall with a spread of 45-61cm (18-24”).
Days to Maturity: 50-65 days.
Watering: Ruby Red Swiss Chard has moderate water requirements to support leaf production. Try to use soaker hoses or drip lines to water with. This helps prevent fungal diseases and keeps water off the leaves. Water the plants evenly to help them grow better. Water often during dry spells in the summer. You can also mulch the plants to help conserve moisture.
Sun/Shade: Full Sun
Spacing after Thinning: 20-25cm (8-10") apart in rows 45-61cm (18-24”) apart.
Additional Information For best quality, cut the plants back when they are about 1 foot tall. If the chard plants become overgrown they lose their flavor. You can start harvesting when the plants are 15-20cm (6-8”) tall. Cut off the outer leaves 1-1½ inches above the ground with a sharp knife. If you harvest the leaves carefully, new leaves will grow and provide another harvest. Cut the stalks or ribs off the chard leaves and cook them like asparagus. The leaves are eaten as greens. You can cook them like spinach or eat them raw.