On April 30, 1774, Thomas Jefferson sowed "white beet", another name for leaf-beet or Swiss Chard. While Jefferson's variety was most likely a green leaf with white ribs, leaf-beet has long been known to come in "many and variable colours," as noted by herbalist John Gerard in 1596. This packet contains an edible and ornamental mix of white, scarlet, and yellow-ribbed varieties.
Direct sow Swiss Chard "Mixed Colors" (Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla) seeds every 2-4 weeks from early to late spring for a continuous harvest, then again in late summer. Swiss Chard can be grown in containers, and also tolerates some frost and may overwinter. Approximately 100 Swiss Chard "Mixed Colors" (Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla) seeds per packet.
Details
Genus | Beta |
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Species | vulgaris subsp. cicla |
Exposure | Full Sun | Planting Method | Direct Sow | Planting Depth | 1/2 - 3/4" |
Days to Emerge | 5 - 17 |
Plant Spacing | Thin to 12-16" apart |
Habit | 6 - 28" H |