Gourmet Ruby Chard
Scarlet Charlotte
Our newer selection of this American classic will delight both your eye and appetite. The wide crunchy stalks and leaf veins are a gorgeous magenta red that contrasts perfectly with the deep green savoyed leaves. This highly ornamental and weather tolerant chard’s vibrant color lights up the garden and will be equally at home in both your vegetable and flower beds. In the kitchen, the pretty leaves and stalks are versatile, succulent and good tasting.
START SEEDS OUTDOORS
In early spring when danger of hard frost is over, sow seeds in well-worked, fertile soil in full sun. Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 2 inches apart in rows 10 inches apart. Firm soil well over these irregularly shaped seeds to ensure good germination. If first sowing germinates unevenly, plant more seed in the rows as seedlings catch up quickly. Thin when seedlings are large enough to handle, using thinnings as early greens. Final spacing should be 12 to 18 inches apart.
GROWING NOTES
Chard grows well in a wide range of conditions and can take some frost. In mild winter areas, it can be grown year-round. Thin seedlings well so the large 2 foot tall, vase-shaped plants have room to mature.
HARVEST AND USE
Begin harvesting when plants are well established and have 6 to 8 stalks. Both the crunchy succulent stalks and leaves make great eating. Chop and sauté chard with garlic and olive oil or pair with sautéed mushrooms and onions. Try steamed and topped with a sprinkle of vinegar or fresh lemon juice. Use like spinach in lasagna or minestrone soup.
Plant In |
Sun/Shade |
Planting Depth |
Space Seeds |
Days to Germinate |
Days to Harvest |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
February - September
|
Full sun
|
1/2 inch
|
2 inches
|
5 - 7 days
|
Approx. 50
|
Plant In |
Sun/Shade |
Planting Depth |
Space Seeds |
Days to Germinate |
Days to Harvest |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
February - September
|
Full sun
|
1/2 inch
|
2 inches
|
5 - 7 days
|
Approx. 50
|
Plant In
February - September
|
Sun/Shade
Full sun
|
Planting Depth
1/2 inch
|
Space Seeds
2 inches
|
Days to Germinate
5 - 7 days
|
Days to Harvest
Approx. 50
|