How To Grow Ruby Red Swiss Chard Microgreens

Ruby Red Swiss Chard microgreens are a nutrient-packed and vibrant addition to your meals. They offer a mildly earthy and slightly sweet flavor with a beautiful red stem and green leaves. These microgreens are rich in vitamins A, C, K, and essential minerals, making them perfect for salads, sandwiches, or garnishing dishes.

 

Supplies Needed

- Ruby Red Swiss Chard seeds
- Growing tray with drainage holes
- Organic seed-starting mix or soil
- Spray bottle for watering
- Light source (grow light or sunny window)
- Clear plastic cover or humidity dome (optional)

 

Planting Ruby Red Swiss Chard Microgreens

Location and Light: These microgreens grow well indoors under a grow light or near a sunny window that gets indirect sunlight. They require at least 4-6 hours of light daily to grow strong and healthy.

Soil Preparation: Fill a shallow tray with 1-2 inches of organic seed-starting mix or potting soil. Lightly moisten the soil using a spray bottle before planting. Ensure the soil is evenly spread but not compacted.

Sowing Seeds: Evenly scatter the Ruby Red Swiss Chard seeds across the surface of the soil. Spread the seeds close together but not overlapping. Press the seeds lightly into the soil, but do not cover them, as chard seeds benefit from light for germination.

Covering: Optionally, cover the tray with a clear plastic lid or humidity dome to maintain moisture and help speed up germination. Remove the cover once the seeds have sprouted, typically within 5-7 days.

 

Caring for Ruby Red Swiss Chard Microgreens

Watering: Mist the soil lightly each day to keep it moist but not waterlogged. Alternatively, water from the bottom by placing the tray in a shallow container of water until the soil absorbs moisture.

Light Exposure: Once the seeds sprout, place the tray under a grow light or near a sunny window. Ensure the microgreens receive 12-16 hours of light daily for optimal growth.

Temperature: Ruby Red Swiss Chard microgreens thrive in temperatures between 60-75°F (16-24°C). Keep the growing area warm, avoiding drafts and extreme temperature changes.

 

Harvesting Ruby Red Swiss Chard Microgreens

When to Harvest: Ruby Red Swiss Chard microgreens are typically ready for harvest 10-14 days after planting, once they are about 1-2 inches tall and have developed their first set of true leaves (cotyledons).

How to Harvest: Use clean scissors to cut the microgreens just above the soil line. Harvest only what you need or cut the entire tray. For the best flavor and crispness, harvest early in the morning.

 

Storing and Using Swiss Chard Microgreens

Storing Fresh Microgreens: Store harvested microgreens in an airtight container or plastic bag in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh for up to a week, but are best consumed within 3-5 days for optimal flavor and nutritional value.

Culinary Uses: Ruby Red Swiss Chard microgreens have a mild, earthy flavor and a slightly sweet undertone. They are excellent in salads, sandwiches, smoothies, and as a garnish for soups and other dishes. Their bright red stems and green leaves add a beautiful visual element to any meal.

 

Growing Tips

Patience with Germination: Swiss chard seeds can take a bit longer to germinate compared to other microgreens. Maintain consistent moisture and warmth for the best results.

Avoid Overwatering: Overwatering can lead to mold growth or root rot. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, and ensure good air circulation around the tray.

Rotate the Tray: If growing near a window, rotate the tray every few days to ensure even exposure to light and prevent the microgreens from leaning toward the light source.

Growing Ruby Red Swiss Chard microgreens at home is a rewarding and easy way to enjoy fresh, colorful, and nutrient-packed greens. Their vibrant color and mild flavor make them a delightful addition to any dish!