Swiss Chard

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Very easy to grow this much underrated vegetable is worth growing if for no other reason that the colour it can add to a plate.

It is similar to, but easier to grow than, spinach - as it is less likely to go to seed in dry weather - and one sowing will produce a crop for many months.

 

Plan to sow just one crop per year from April to July. Seed need to be 10 cm apart at about 2.5 cm deep. Once seedlings are big enough mulching will help maintain growth in the dryer periods.

 

Harvesting is simple Pull off the outer leaves when they are large enough for the kitchen; don't wait until they reach maximum size the younger leaves have a better taste.