Swiss Chard

• Bright Lights Swiss Chard (Beta vulgaris 'Bright Lights')

Sun Requirements: Full Sun to Partial Shade

Water Requirements: Moderate

Height: 18-24 inches

Description: Bright Lights Swiss Chard is celebrated for its vibrant and colorful stems in shades of yellow, pink, orange, red, and purple, which contrast beautifully with its deep green, slightly crinkled leaves. This variety is not only a visual standout in the garden but is also nutritious and versatile in the kitchen. It can be eaten raw in salads, sautéed, or added to soups.

Planting Tips:

• Plant in well-drained, fertile soil.
• Space plants about 12-18 inches apart.
• Water regularly to keep soil moist, especially during hot, dry periods.
• Harvest outer leaves periodically to encourage new growth and extend the productive period.

Ideal Season for Planting in Texas: Early Spring or Fall

Nativity to Texas: No

• Charbell F1 Swiss Chard (Beta vulgaris 'Charbell F1')

Sun Requirements: Full Sun to Partial Shade

Water Requirements: Moderate

Height: 18-24 inches

Description: Charbell F1 is a hybrid variety of Swiss Chard known for its robust growth and high yield. It features bright green leaves and white stems, offering a crisp texture and mild flavor. This chard is excellent for cooking or using in salads and is particularly resistant to bolting, making it a reliable choice for gardeners.

Planting Tips:

• Plant in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil.
• Space plants about 12-18 inches apart.
• Ensure consistent soil moisture with regular watering.
• Harvest leaves by cutting them at the base to promote continuous growth.

Ideal Season for Planting in Texas: Early Spring or Fall

Nativity to Texas: No

• Fordhook Giant Swiss Chard (Beta vulgaris 'Fordhook Giant')

Sun Requirements: Full Sun to Partial Shade

Water Requirements: Moderate

Height: 18-24 inches

Description: Fordhook Giant Swiss Chard is a robust and productive variety, well-known for its broad, white, tender stalks and large, crinkly green leaves. This heirloom variety is exceptionally hearty and can withstand both cold and heat, making it a versatile choice for gardeners. Its leaves are rich in flavor and can be harvested throughout the growing season for use in salads, sautés, and other dishes.

Planting Tips:

• Plant in well-drained, fertile soil.
• Space plants about 12-18 inches apart.
• Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist.
• Harvest outer leaves by cutting them at the base to encourage continuous production.

Ideal Season for Planting in Texas: Early Spring or Fall

Nativity to Texas: No

• Red Rhubarb Swiss Chard (Beta vulgaris 'Red Rhubarb')

Sun Requirements: Full Sun to Partial Shade

Water Requirements: Moderate

Height: 18-24 inches

Description: Red Rhubarb Swiss Chard is known for its striking crimson red stalks and dark green, glossy leaves. This variety adds a dramatic flair to the garden and provides a tasty addition to a wide range of dishes. The leaves and stems are tender and have a flavor that is a bit more intense than other chard varieties, excellent for both raw and cooked applications.

Planting Tips:

• Plant in well-drained, fertile soil.
• Space plants about 12-18 inches apart.
• Maintain consistent moisture in the soil, especially in peak summer heat.
• Regularly harvest outer leaves to encourage new growth and prolong the harvest season.

Ideal Season for Planting in Texas: Early Spring or Fall

Nativity to Texas: No