Container Chard - Pot of Gold

EASIEST TO START OUTDOORS For container sowing, use pots at least 12 inches in diameter and 12 inches deep and start with fresh potting mix. Plant seed in spring, after danger of frost is over, and/or again in mid-summer for fall harvests. Sow seed 1/2 inch deep and 1 inch apart in full sun. Keep evenly moist. When seedlings are several inches tall, gradually thin to 8 inches apart in containers and use the delicious thinnings for early greens. Be sure to thin seedlings well so the large, vase-shaped plants have room to mature. If planting in garden beds, thin seedlings to stand 12 inches apart. GROWING NOTES Easy to grow chard can be grown year-round in mild winter areas. It prefers full sun, but will tolerate afternoon shade. Water regularly, checking containers daily in hot weather. Feed these fast-growing, productive plants weekly with a good high-nitrogen fertilizer. Watch for snails and slugs. HARVEST AND USE Begin harvesting when plants are well established and have 6 to 8 stalks. Both the crunchy succulent stalks and leaves make great eating. Break stems off at the base of the plant, always leaving at least 3 to 4 stalks to allow for regrowth. Chard is delicious sautéed, steamed, braised or stirfried. It pairs beautifully with the flavors of olive oil, garlic and lemon.