How to Plant Swiss Chard in Pots

Introduction:

Swiss chard is an excellent crop to grow in containers as it requires minimal space and care. If you're interested in planting Swiss chard in pots, this article is the perfect guide for you. Here, we'll show you the steps for preparing your pots, choosing the soil, planting Swiss chard, and taking care of them until harvest time.

Preparing Your Pots:

Before planting Swiss chard in pots, you need to prepare the containers properly. Choose a pot that's at least 12 inches deep with adequate drainage holes. Clean the pot with soap and water to remove debris and any harmful pathogens or fungi. Once clean, fill the pot with a good quality potting mix.

Choosing the Soil:

Swiss chard needs well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. A good potting mix will keep the soil moist without being too waterlogged. You can also add some perlite or sand to the soil to improve drainage.

Planting Swiss Chard:

When planting Swiss chard in pots, start by filling the pot with soil, leaving an inch or two at the top. Create shallow troughs around an inch deep, and lightly sow the seeds. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil, tamp them down, and water them.

Care for Your Swiss Chard:

Once your Swiss chard has started to grow, it's important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Too much water can lead to root rot, while too little water can cause the leaves to wilt. Swiss chard also needs about six hours of sunlight a day, so make sure to put the pots in a bright spot.

Harvesting Your Swiss Chard:

Swiss chard can be harvested as soon as the leaves are about 4-6 inches long, which takes about 40-60 days. Use a sharp knife or scissors to pick the leaves from the outer part of the plant, leaving the center leaves to grow. You can also harvest the entire plant by cutting it off at the base.

Conclusion:

Swiss chard is a fantastic crop to grow in pots, especially for those who have limited space. Using the above steps, you can easily grow Swiss chard in pots and enjoy a bountiful harvest in no time. Remember to always keep the soil moist without overwatering, provide adequate sunlight, and watch out for pests and diseases. Happy planting!