Swiss Chard Fordhook

Swiss Chard Fordhook Giant is a high-yielding variety prized for its slightly sweet, mild flavor and tender texture. The large, dark green leaves with white stalks are excellent for steaming, sautéing, or adding to soups and salads. This robust plant is known for its adaptability and can grow up to 24" tall. It produces crops throughout the summer and into the fall, with a quick maturity period of 50–60 days. Its versatility in both fresh and cooked dishes makes it a favorite among gardeners and chefs.

History and Origin:

Introduced in the early 20th century, Fordhook Giant is a staple variety developed for its hardiness and productivity. Although often associated with Swiss origins, Swiss chard, including this variety, originates from the Mediterranean. Its popularity grew steadily due to its ability to thrive in various climates and soil conditions.

How to Grow Swiss Chard Fordhook Giant from Seeds:

Sowing:

• When to Plant:
  • Directly sow seeds outdoors 1–2 weeks after the last spring frost when the soil has warmed.
  • In cooler climates, start seeds indoors 3–4 weeks before the last frost date.
  • In mild climates, sow in the fall for a winter harvest.
• How to Plant:
  • Use nutrient-rich, well-drained soil in full sun.
  • Plant seeds ½–1 inch deep, spacing them 6–8 inches apart within rows, with rows spaced 18–24 inches apart.
  • For continuous harvests, sow seeds every two weeks.

Plant Spacing:

• Thin seedlings to 8–12 inches apart once they emerge to allow sufficient space for mature growth.

Growing Instructions:

• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during germination and early growth. A layer of mulch can help retain moisture and prevent weed growth.
• Soil Requirements: Rich, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0 is ideal. Incorporate compost or aged manure before planting.
• Light Requirements: Full sun is optimal, but Fordhook Giant tolerates partial shade, making it suitable for diverse garden layouts.
• Temperature Tolerance: Hardy in USDA zones 3–10. Can withstand light frosts, extending the growing season in cooler climates.

Days to Germination:

• 5–10 days in warm soil (50–85°F).

Harvesting:

• When to Harvest:
  • Begin harvesting individual leaves when they are 8–10 inches tall.
  • To promote regrowth, leave at least 1–2 inches of the stem when cutting leaves.
  • Continuous harvesting encourages new growth and ensures a prolonged harvest period.
• Days to Maturity:
  • 50–60 days for full-size leaves, but baby greens can be harvested earlier for tender salads.

Seed Saving:

• Pollination: Swiss chard is wind-pollinated. Isolate it by at least two miles from other chard or beet varieties to maintain genetic purity.
• Overwintering for Seeds:
  • In mild climates, mulch plants to overwinter them.
  • In colder regions, dig up the roots and store them in moist sand in a cool, dark place until spring. Replant in early spring for seed production.
  • Allow plants to flower and produce seeds in the second year. Harvest seeds once fully dry and store in a cool, dry place for up to five years.

Fast Facts:

• Common Name: Swiss Chard
• Latin Name: Beta vulgaris var. cicla
• Species Origin: Mediterranean
• Life Cycle: Biennial (grown as an annual for leaves)
• USDA Zones: 3–10
• Height: Up to 24 inches
• Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Shade
• Color: Dark Green Leaves, White Stalks
• Uses: Culinary – fresh, cooked, or frozen