Chard - White Silver 3

Beta vulgaris - approx 200 seeds

Chard 'White Silver 3' is an easy to grow leaf vegetable on all types of soil. It is a big plant type with broad white veins with smooth, green leaves. It does not bolt fast. It can be used for salads when you increase sowing density, as this will lead to smaller leaves.

How to grow:
Grow in the miscellaneous section of your rotation. Chard does not like very acidic soil so liming may be required. Compost or other organic matter will also help your crop.
Sow the seed into well-prepared ground from March until August. Scatter in rows about 1 cm deep and 30 cm between the rows.
Thin the seedlings to around 20cm apart as they grow. It is a good idea to make at least 2 sowings during the season to ensure a good supply. Chards are biennial and so are much less likely to go up to seed than true spinach. However, in hot weather or very dry conditions it can bolt. This can be a particular problem with spring-sown crops. Watering well will help to prevent this.
Harvest from June onwards. Start with the outside leaves and pull the stems away with a sharp downwards tug. Leave the plants to grow on and harvest as required.
Pests and diseases:
Chard is trouble free and very easy to grow.
Protect young seedlings from slugs, if necessary, using an environmentally friendly slug killer.
How to cook:
Young leaves can be used in salad and we can cook the larger ones like spinach. You can remove the midrib for a finer result or use the stems in your recipes too.
Chard is great in tarts and pies, quiche, patties and curry. It is also good for us; containing vitamins K, A, and C, as well as magnesium, potassium and iron.