How to grow Swiss Chard in the UK
Beta vulgaris
Swiss Chard (Beta vulgaris) is a vegetable that grows well in UK gardens. Practically indestructible. Rainbow chard looks brilliant in flower borders too. This guide covers when and how to sow Swiss Chard, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Swiss Chard
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr Sow | May Sow | Jun | Jul Harvest | Aug Harvest | Sep Harvest | Oct Harvest | Nov Harvest | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Fertile, free-draining soil enriched with garden compost
- Soil pH
- 6.5–7.0 (neutral)
- Position
- Open, sunny site
- Sowing depth
- 2 cm
- Spacing
- 30 cm apart
- Sowing
- Sow Apr–Jul; very hardy, crops into winter
- Growing
- Keep weed-free and evenly watered; mulch to hold moisture
- Harvest & upkeep
- Pick outer stems; tough leaves cook like spinach
- Watch for
- Mostly trouble-free; leaf miner
Companion planting for Swiss Chard
No specific companion notes for this plant.
Add Swiss Chard to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Swiss Chard FAQs
When should I sow Swiss Chard in the UK?
In the UK, sow Swiss Chard in April, May. Sowing across these months gives the plant the right soil temperature and day length to establish well.
How much sun does Swiss Chard need?
Swiss Chard prefers partial sun (3–6 hrs).
When is Swiss Chard ready to harvest?
Swiss Chard is typically ready to harvest in July, August, September, October, November in the UK.
Is Swiss Chard easy to grow?
Easy — good for beginners. Practically indestructible. Rainbow chard looks brilliant in flower borders too.