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Vegetable
Amaranthaceae
Swiss Chard 'Fordhook Giant' (Beta vulgaris var. cicla)
Product code : JAREC-0018
Organic Swiss chard 'Fordhook Giant' is a generous and robust variety that gives the vegetable garden a look that is both abundant and elegant. With its large, slightly blistered dark green leaves and fleshy stalks, *Beta vulgaris var. cicla* stands out for its great vigor and its ability to produce for a long time during the season. In the garden, it establishes easily, both in the ground and in large containers, and quickly offers a nutritious harvest that recalls the sweetness of spinach with a crispier texture. Its young leaves can be added to salads, while more developed leaves and stalks are suitable for stir-fries, quiches, gratins, and soups.
- Quantity
- About 100 seeds
- Exposure
- Sun to partial shade
- Life cycle
- Biennial
Discover the plant
Common nameSwiss chard 'Fordhook Giant'
FamilyAmaranthaceae
GenusBeta
Speciescommon
CultivarFordhook Giant
TypeVegetable
Botanical nameBeta vulgaris var. cicla
Reproducible seedsYes
Swiss Chard ‘Fordhook Giant’ (Beta vulgaris var. cicla). Organic 'Fordhook Giant' Swiss Chard is a generous and robust variety that gives the vegetable garden both an abundant and elegant look. With its large, slightly blistered dark green leaves and fleshy stems, Beta vulgaris var. cicla is distinguished by its great vigor and its ability to produce for a long time during the season. In the garden, it establishes itself easily, both in the ground and in large containers, and quickly offers a nutritious harvest that recalls the sweetness of spinach with a crispier texture.
Recommended sowing period: May to July. The depth to respect is 1.5 to 2 cm (0.6 to 0.8 in). Germination usually takes 7 to 14 days. For germination, keep the potting soil at 10 to 30 °C (50 to 86 °F). Distribute the leafy vegetable seeds regularly to avoid an overly dense carpet of seedlings. Thin out or transplant according to the type of cultivation, keeping the vigorous subjects. Successive sowings allow harvesting leaves at different stages. Identify the dates to monitor growth.
Its simple cultivation and long harvest period make it a valuable ally for both beginner gardeners and leafy vegetable enthusiasts. Leafy vegetables benefit from being placed near a pathway, as they are often harvested in small quantities. Organize short rows or identified groups to choose ready plants without trampling the soil. Leave room for the heart or the head depending on the type grown. In a vegetable garden composition, foliage of different colors makes it possible to identify varieties and prepare varied salads. Organic 'Fordhook Giant' Swiss Chard is a generous and robust variety that gives the vegetable garden both an abundant and elegant look.
Sowing guide
It all startswith a seed.
Sowing depth
0.6 to 0.8 in. (1.5 to 2 cm)
Germination temperature
10 to 30 °C (50 to 86 °F)
Germination time
7 to 14 days
Sowing period
May to July
Propagation
Sowing
Growing method
Recommended sowing period: May to July. The recommended depth is 1.5 to 2 cm (0.6 to 0.8 in). Germination usually takes 7 to 14 days. For germination, keep the potting mix at 10 to 30 °C (50 to 86 °F). Distribute leafy vegetable seeds evenly to avoid overcrowding of seedlings. Thin out or transplant according to the type of crop, keeping vigorous specimens. Staggered sowings allow for harvesting leaves at different stages. Identify the dates to monitor growth. During warm periods, monitor the surface of the seedbed: it can dry out before the roots have reached a cooler layer. For leaf-by-leaf harvesting, start with the outer leaves and preserve the center of the plant. Headed types can also be harvested whole when the heart is well formed. A young leaf is generally more tender than a leaf left for too long. Rinse the harvest before preparation and avoid crushing the remaining foliage. Observe the lengthening of the central stem to identify the start of bolting. Leafy vegetables require harvesting adjusted to the type of plant.
Soil and care
The right care,at the right time.
Care level
Regular during establishment, then adapted to growing conditions
Watering
Regular
Soil type
Rich and well-drained
Fertilization
Fertilization supports growth and takes into account the nutrients already present in the soil or potting mix. Use mature compost or a fertilizer suitable for the crop, following the dosage instructions. Avoid using multiple products, especially in a container where roots occupy a limited volume. Water as needed after application and observe leaf development before re-fertilizing.
Moisture
Keep the soil moist during germination, avoiding standing water; then adjust according to the crop.
Seasonal care
With its large, dark green, slightly blistered leaves and fleshy ribs, *Beta vulgaris* var. *cicla* (Swiss chard) stands out for its great vigor and ability to produce throughout the season. Distribute the leafy vegetable seeds evenly to avoid an overly dense carpet of seedlings. Thin out or transplant according to the type of cultivation, keeping the vigorous plants. Spaced out sowings over time allow for harvesting leaves at different stages. Identify the dates to monitor growth. During hot periods, monitor the surface of the sowing: it can dry out before the roots have reached a cooler layer. For leaf-by-leaf harvesting, start with the outer leaves and preserve the center of the plant. Headed types can also be harvested whole when the heart is well-formed. A young leaf is generally more tender than a leaf left for too long. Rinse the harvest before preparation and avoid crushing the remaining foliage. Observe the lengthening of the central stem to identify the beginning of bolting. Leafy vegetables require harvesting adjusted to the type of plant. Outer picking preserves the heart when you want to continue production. Very old leaves do not have the same tenderness as young shoots. Rinse the harvest just before use or dry it carefully before a short stay in the refrigerator. In the garden, it establishes easily, both in the ground and in large containers, and quickly offers a nutritious harvest that evokes the sweetness of spinach with a crisper texture.
Container growing
A garden,within reach.
Suitable for containers
Yes
Recommended pot size
Stable, perforated container, wide enough for the plant to spread out and deep enough for its roots
Choose this exposure: sun to partial shade. Reserve this spread around the plant: 30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 in). A leafy vegetable planter allows you to keep a harvest close to the kitchen. Use all available surface without pressing the plants against the edge. Head types require more space than leaves harvested very young. Check moisture regularly and water under the foliage as much as possible. Harvest with clean scissors and remove damaged leaves to keep the heart accessible and airy. In the garden, it is easy to grow, both in the ground and in large containers, and quickly offers a nourishing harvest reminiscent of the sweetness of spinach with a crisper texture. Organic 'Fordhook Giant' swiss chard is a generous and robust variety that gives the vegetable garden an abundant and elegant look. With its large, slightly puckered dark green leaves and fleshy stalks, Beta vulgaris var. cicla is distinguished by its great vigor and its ability to produce for a long time during the season. Its young leaves can be added to salads, while more developed leaves and stalks are suitable for stir-fries, quiches, gratins, and soups.
Bloom and dimensions
Its place,in your garden.
Mature height
60 to 70 cm (24 to 28 in)
Width / spread
30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 in)
Foliage type
Seasonal foliage
Bloom period
This plant normally flowers in a cycle later than that of the first vegetable harvest. For leaf, bulb, or root production, flowering is not the desired stage. Premature bolting can reduce the tenderness of the harvest. Keep plants intended for reproduction separate from harvested plants, and take into account the space occupied by their flower stalks.
Fruiting
In the garden, it establishes itself easily, both in the ground and in large containers, and quickly offers a nutritious harvest that evokes the sweetness of spinach with a crisper texture. Its young leaves are perfect for salads, while more mature leaves and chard stems are suitable for stir-fries, quiches, gratins, and soups. Easy to grow in fertile, well-drained soil, it thrives in the sun and requires regular watering to maintain its tenderness.
Harvest
50 to 60 days after sowing
Garden associations
In goodcompany.
Companion plants
In a diverse planting, you can reserve neighboring sections for these plants: carrots, onions, lettuce. The purpose of this association is to organize space and harvests. Respect the height, light, and water needs of each plant, without crowding the foliage. Maintain a path for watering and picking, then remove finished crops to free up space. This organization simplifies maintenance but does not promise protection against pests. Leafy greens benefit from being placed near a pathway, as they are often harvested in small quantities.
Recipe idea
From the gardento your plate.
Edible parts
Leaves
Swiss Chard 'Fordhook Giant' cooking idea: vegetable stir-fry for four servings. Prepare 400 g of harvested chard, one clove of garlic, 15 ml of oil, and 30 ml of water. Cut the stems, ribs, or firm parts into small pieces and set the leaves aside. Heat the oil, sauté the garlic without burning it, then add the firm pieces and water. Cover for a few minutes. Add the leaves or tender parts afterward and continue cooking until the desired texture is reached. Season to taste and serve hot. Prepare ingredients with clean utensils and adjust cutting to the size of your harvest. This recipe highlights freshly picked parts: remove any damaged pieces before preparation. If doubling the quantities, ensure enough space in the pan for mixing or even cooking. Promptly place leftovers in the refrigerator in a sealed container and consume within two days. For a meal for two, simply divide all quantities by two.
Frequently asked questions
Your questions,answered.
How to successfully sow Swiss Chard 'Fordhook Giant'?
Recommended sowing period: May to July. The recommended planting depth is 1.5 to 2 cm (0.6 to 0.8 in). Germination usually takes 7 to 14 days. For germination, maintain the potting soil at 10 to 30 °C (50 to 86 °F). Distribute leafy vegetable seeds evenly to avoid an overly dense mat of seedlings. Thin out or transplant according to the type of crop, keeping the vigorous plants. Staggered sowings over time allow for harvesting leaves at different stages. Label the dates to track growth. During hot periods, monitor the surface of the sowing: it can dry out before the roots have reached a cooler layer.
Can 'Fordhook Giant' Swiss Chard be grown in pots?
Choose this exposure: sun to partial shade. Reserve this spacing around the plant: 30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 in). A leafy vegetable planter allows you to keep a harvest close to the kitchen. Use all available surface without crowding plants against the edge. Headed varieties require more space than leaves harvested very young. Check moisture regularly and water under the foliage as much as possible. Harvest with clean scissors and remove damaged leaves to keep the heart accessible and aerated. Organic 'Fordhook Giant' Swiss chard is a generous and robust variety that gives the vegetable garden a look that is both abundant and elegant.
When to harvest 'Fordhook Giant' Swiss Chard?
In the garden, it easily takes root, both in the ground and in large containers, quickly providing a nutritious harvest reminiscent of the sweetness of spinach with a crispier texture. Its young leaves can be added to salads, while more mature leaves and stalks are perfect for stir-fries, quiches, gratins, and soups. Easy to grow in fertile, well-drained soil, it thrives in sunlight and requires regular watering to maintain its tenderness. Its simple cultivation and long harvest period make it a valuable ally for both beginner gardeners and leafy green enthusiasts.
What makes 'Fordhook Giant' Swiss Chard stand out in the garden?
Organic 'Fordhook Giant' swiss chard is a generous and robust variety that gives the vegetable garden an abundant yet elegant look. With its large, slightly blistered dark green leaves and fleshy stalks, Beta vulgaris var. cicla is distinguished by its great vigor and its ability to produce for a long time during the season. In the garden, it establishes itself easily, both in the ground and in large containers, and quickly offers a nourishing harvest that is reminiscent of the sweetness of spinach with a crispier texture. Its young leaves can be added to salads, while more developed leaves and chard stalks are suitable for stir-fries, quiches, gratins, and soups.
How to plant 'Fordhook Giant' Swiss Chard?
Leafy vegetables benefit from being placed near a pathway, as they are often harvested in small quantities. Organize short rows or identified groups to select ready plants without trampling the soil. Leave room for the heart or head depending on the type grown. In a vegetable garden composition, different colored foliage helps identify varieties and prepare varied salads. For leaf-by-leaf harvesting, start with the outer leaves and preserve the center of the plant. Headed types can also be harvested whole when the heart is well-formed. A young leaf is generally more tender than a leaf left too long.
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