RAINBOW CHARD SEEDS

Beta vulgaris var. cicla

Lovers of chard will appreciate this diverse mix of bright colors. Though we prefer the texture and flavor of Erbette, we must concede that these colorful plants are among the most beautiful in the kitchen garden. Tender baby leaves are a nice addition to salad. Mature plants have substantial and savoyed leaves on long bright stalks. Bundling these stems is about the most fun that a market gardener can have.

Sow seeds into 50 cell flats, one or two seeds per cell, about four weeks before transplanting into the garden. Kept warm (around 65°F) and moist seeds will begin to germinate in a week or so. Thin to one healthy seedling per cell for the biggest and most brightly colored plants. Fertilize weekly with dilute fish and/or seaweed. Harden off and transplant into fertile garden soil around the date of the last spring frost, or about six weeks before the first frost in autumn. Water generously and mulch to maintain soil moisture.

Seeds may also be sown directly into warm garden soil in spring or early autumn for cutting. Water frequently.

Packet contains around 300 seeds.