Fordhook Giant Swiss Chard – MIg

Description

Fordhook Giant Swiss Chard (Beta vulgaris var. cicla) is a classic heirloom leafy green valued for its large, dark green, crinkled leaves and broad white stems. It is a productive and versatile cool-season crop, with a mild, slightly earthy flavor that works beautifully in salads when young and in sautés, soups, stews, pasta and other cooked dishes when mature.

The plants form large, upright clumps and tolerate repeated harvesting well. Pick the outer leaves as needed while allowing the center to continue producing fresh growth. Fordhook Giant is an excellent choice for home vegetable gardens, raised beds and containers.

When to Plant in the UAE

• Direct sow outdoors: Late September–December
• Best grown during the cooler growing season.

Planting & Care Tips

• Sow seeds about 1–2 cm deep in fertile, well-drained soil.
• Germination usually takes 7–14 days.
• Space plants 20–30 cm apart, with 30–45 cm between rows.
• Grow in full sun to partial shade.
• Keep the soil consistently moist for tender, vigorous growth.
• Add compost before planting and feed with a balanced vegetable fertilizer during the growing season.
• Harvest outer leaves regularly once they reach a useful size.
• For tender greens, harvest leaves while they are still young.
• Remove damaged or yellowing leaves to keep plants productive and healthy.