If you’re looking to add some color to your garden while also reaping the benefits of a nutritious leafy green, Swiss chard might be just what you need. Not only is it a beautiful plant, but it’s also packed with vitamins A and C. And the best part? You can enjoy it in a variety of ways, whether it’s in a salad when it’s young or in a stir-fry when it’s more mature.
To make the most of your Swiss chard harvest, it’s important to know when and how to harvest it. Luckily, it’s a relatively easy process once you get the hang of it. With a bit of knowledge and preparation, you can enjoy the fruits (or rather, leaves) of your labor in no time.
Swiss Chard Harvest
Harvesting Swiss chard is a simple process that can be done throughout the summer months. You can begin harvesting chard when the leaves are about 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) long, which usually takes about 60 days after planting. To harvest, simply cut the outer leaves from the plant, leaving the center leaves to continue growing. Alternatively, you can harvest the entire plant by cutting it at the base, which will allow for regrowth and a second harvest later in the season.
It’s important to harvest chard regularly to encourage continued growth and prevent the leaves from becoming too large and tough. Chard can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, but it’s best to use it as soon as possible for optimal freshness.
When harvesting Swiss chard, it’s important to handle the leaves gently to avoid bruising or damaging them. You can also wash the leaves before using them in recipes, but be sure to dry them thoroughly before storing or cooking.
Overall, harvesting Swiss chard is a simple and rewarding process that can provide a steady supply of fresh greens throughout the summer season.
When is Chard Ready to Pick?
Chard can be harvested when the leaves are young and tender, which is when they are smaller than 4 inches (10 cm.) in length. However, if you prefer mature chard, you can wait until it reaches full maturity before harvesting. Once you begin harvesting, you can continue to do so until the first frost. If you want to add some fresh Swiss chard to your salad, you can snip the leaves when they are small. For stir-fry dishes, larger pieces of chard can be cut. The good news is that chard will keep producing more leaves as long as it is cut. Additionally, the stalks and ribs can be cooked and eaten like asparagus.
How to Pick Swiss Chard
To pick Swiss chard, you should cut off the outer leaves that are about 8 to 12 inches (20-31 cm.) long and 1 ½ to 2 inches (4-5 cm.) above the ground. It is recommended to remove the older leaves to allow the young leaves to continue growing. While cutting the leaves, make sure not to damage the terminal bud. You can cut all the leaves off to within 2 inches (5 cm.) of the soil, provided the growing point is not damaged. It is best to use a clean and sharp pair of garden scissors or a knife to harvest the chard. You can sever the leaves at the base of the plant, and new leaves will grow quickly. If refrigerated, Swiss chard can be stored for one to two weeks.
To summarize, when picking Swiss chard, you should:
- Cut off the outer leaves that are about 8 to 12 inches (20-31 cm.) long and 1 ½ to 2 inches (4-5 cm.) above the ground
- Remove the older leaves to allow the young leaves to continue growing
- Avoid damaging the terminal bud
- Use a clean and sharp pair of garden scissors or a knife
- Sever the leaves at the base of the plant
- Refrigerate the chard for one to two weeks
