Ruby Red Swiss Chard Growing Guide

 

Ruby Red Swiss Chard (Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris), also known as Rhubarb Chard, is a striking variety of Swiss chard with deep red stems and veins contrasting against dark green leaves. This beautiful and nutritious vegetable is versatile in the kitchen, making it an excellent choice for salads, sautés, and soups. Ruby Red Swiss Chard is easy to grow and provides a continuous harvest throughout the growing season.

   

 

Planting Ruby Red Swiss Chard

Sunlight: Choose a location that receives full sun to partial shade. Swiss chard grows well in full sun but can tolerate light shade, especially in warmer climates.

Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Swiss chard thrives in soil rich in organic matter, so amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.

When to Plant: Ruby Red Swiss Chard is a cool-season crop that can be planted in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest. In mild climates, it can be grown year-round. Sow seeds directly in the garden 2-4 weeks before the last expected frost date in spring, or 8-10 weeks before the first expected frost date in fall.

Direct Sowing: Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 6-8 inches apart in rows spaced 18-24 inches apart. Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart once they are a few inches tall to allow enough space for the plants to develop.

Transplanting: If starting seeds indoors, transplant seedlings outdoors when they are 3-4 inches tall and the danger of frost has passed. Space the plants 12 inches apart in rows 18-24 inches apart.

 

Caring for Ruby Red Swiss Chard

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Swiss chard has shallow roots and requires regular watering, especially during dry periods, to ensure even moisture. Mulching around the plants can help retain soil moisture and keep the roots cool.

Fertilization: Swiss chard benefits from a nutrient-rich soil but does not require heavy fertilization. Apply compost or a balanced fertilizer at planting time. If the leaves appear pale or growth slows, side-dress with compost or a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.

Mulching and Weeding: Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the soil temperature consistent. Hand-pull weeds carefully to avoid disturbing the shallow roots of the chard.

Pest and Disease Management: Swiss chard is relatively resistant to pests and diseases but can occasionally attract aphids, leaf miners, and slugs. Use organic pest control methods like neem oil, insecticidal soap, or hand-picking to manage infestations. Practice crop rotation and ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases like downy mildew.

 

Harvesting Ruby Red Swiss Chard

When to Harvest: Ruby Red Swiss Chard is typically ready to harvest 55-60 days after planting. Harvest the outer leaves as needed for a "cut-and-come-again" approach, or wait until the entire plant is mature. Chard is best harvested in the morning when the leaves are crisp and cool.

How to Harvest: For leaf harvesting, cut the outer leaves at the base with scissors or pruning shears, leaving the inner leaves to continue growing. For larger harvests, cut the entire plant back to about 2 inches above the soil level, and it will regrow for additional harvests. Handle the leaves gently to avoid bruising.

 

Storing and Using Ruby Red Swiss Chard

Storing Fresh Swiss Chard: Freshly harvested Swiss chard can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Wash the leaves and dry them thoroughly before storing in a plastic bag or container with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Swiss chard can also be blanched and frozen for longer storage.

Culinary Uses: Ruby Red Swiss Chard is versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. The tender leaves can be eaten raw in salads, sautéed, or added to soups, stews, and casseroles. The colorful stems add visual appeal to any dish and can be cooked similarly to celery or used in stir-fries. Chard pairs well with garlic, lemon, and olive oil for a simple, flavorful side dish.

 

Growing Tips

Companion Planting: Plant Swiss chard alongside carrots, onions, and beans. Avoid planting near beets, as they are closely related and can attract similar pests and diseases.

Succession Planting: For a continuous harvest, sow seeds every 2-3 weeks throughout the growing season. This ensures a steady supply of fresh chard from spring through fall.

Temperature Management: Swiss chard thrives in cooler temperatures but is more heat-tolerant than other leafy greens. In hot climates, provide some afternoon shade to prevent bolting and ensure tender leaves.

Soil Preparation: Swiss chard prefers rich, well-drained soil. Before planting, work in plenty of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to provide essential nutrients and improve soil structure.

 

Growing Ruby Red Swiss Chard in your garden ensures a steady supply of colorful, nutritious greens perfect for a variety of dishes. Enjoy the vibrant colors, tender leaves, and versatile culinary uses of this easy-to-grow variety!