Swiss Chard Mix

Metchosin Farm’s Swiss Chard Mix is a stunning blend of colourful, tender-stemmed chard varieties selected over 15 years to combine the best traits of traditional rainbow chard, bright lights chard, and sugar beet-derived silverbeet varieties. With deep greens, reds, oranges, yellows, and pinks, this mix is both highly ornamental and an essential workhorse for year-round vegetable gardens.

Packed with nutrients and antioxidants, Swiss chard thrives in both summer and winter gardens. Its sweet, mild flavour makes it a versatile ingredient, whether eaten raw in salads, sautéed, or added to soups and stews.

Where Can You Grow Swiss Chard Mix

Swiss Chard grows well in Zones 3-9, thriving in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is an excellent addition to raised beds, garden borders, and even ornamental plantings due to its striking foliage.

History and Historical Uses

Chard has been cultivated for thousands of years, originating in the Mediterranean and later spreading across Europe and North America. Traditionally prized for its nutrient-rich leaves and hardy nature, chard continues to be a staple in home gardens for its reliability and flavour.

Canadian Zone Information

• Zones 8-9: Sow seeds directly in early spring or autumn for a continuous harvest.
• Zones 5-7: Direct sow in late spring or early summer; mulch well for winter harvesting.
• Zones 3-4: Plant in late spring and provide row cover for extended growth into fall.

How to Grow and Harvest Swiss Chard Mix

1. Planting: Sow seeds 1-2cm (0.5-1in) deep, spacing plants 20-30cm (8-12in) apart.
2. Watering: Keep soil evenly moist for tender, sweet leaves.
3. Harvesting: Begin harvesting outer leaves when they reach 15-20cm (6-8in) tall, allowing the plant to continue producing.
4. Frost Tolerance: Chard withstands light frosts, and mature plants can survive mild winters with protection.

Seed Saving Tips for Future Supply

1. Allow Plants to Flower: In their second year, chard plants will send up seed stalks.
2. Harvest Seeds: Once seed heads dry and turn brown, cut them and allow further drying.
3. Thresh and Clean: Crush seed heads to release seeds and remove any debris.
4. Store: Store seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Properly stored seeds remain viable for up to 5 years.

Certified Organic By

Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)