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.

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.

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 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.