Chard chard Chard is a leafy form of Beta vulgaris grown for repeated harvest of nutritious leaves and colorful stems (silver/green or rainbow types). It is cool-tolerant, withstands light frosts, and is grown as an annual though it is biennial. Compared with spinach, chard is slower to bolt and more heat-tolerant, making it reliable across a long season. Two main types exist: leaf types (Cicla Group) with broad leaves and slimmer petioles, and ‘flavescens’ or silverbeet types with thick, fleshy white or colored stems. Growing conditions LightFull sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of light is ideal, but chard tolerates light shade in summer. Soil typeDeep, fertile, well-drained loam enriched with compost; retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. Water requirementModerate and consistent; 2.5–3.5 cm water per week, more during hot, dry spells. Mulch to conserve moisture. Nutrient requirementMedium to high. Benefits from nitrogen for steady leaf growth; avoid excessive fresh manure to limit bolting. Back to plant list
