Quick summary
Chard , a vivacious and nutritious leafy jet , offers aculinary delightin both its stalking and leaves . harvest home chard at the right time and in the right manner secure optimal flavor and nutritionary economic value . This comprehensive pathfinder will endow you with the cognition and techniques toharvest chardlike a seasoned pro .
When to Harvest Chard
Theideal timetoharvest chardis when the leaves are young and tender , typically 8 - 12inches long . Check the basis of the plant for outer leaves that have turn slightly yellow or dark-brown ; these are prime for harvesting .
Harvesting Techniques
1. Outside Leaves First
Begin by removing theouter leaf . Use asharp knifeor pair of scissors to cut the leaves close to the base of the plant . Avoid displume or shoot down the leaves , as this can damage the industrial plant .
2. Leave the Heart Intact
Thecentral partof thechard plant , have sex as the bosom , should be go away intact . This affectionateness will preserve to develop raw leaves , providing you with a continuous harvest .
3. Cut at the Base
Whenharvesting single parting , shorten them at the base where they associate to the prow . Thishelps preservethe base ’s social organization and allows for regrowth .
4. Harvest Regularly
Chard is a fast - raise plant that do good fromregular harvest home . Remove leaves as often as needed to encourage unexampled increase and prevent them from becoming acid .
Post-Harvest Care
1. Wash Thoroughly
Rinse theharvested chardundercold waterto slay any dirt or debris .
2. Store Properly
Store chard in a plastic bag or container in the icebox for up to 5 mean solar day . Keep theleaves slightly moistby placing apaper towelat the bottom of the bag .
3. Use Fresh
Chard is bestconsumed novel . It can be sautéed , steam , or summate to salads and stir - youngster .
Harvesting for Different Uses
1. Baby Chard
Forbaby chard , harvest time theentire plantwhen it is 4 - 6inches tall . geld the leaves at the stem and use them in salad or as a garnish .
2. Mature Chard
Mature chard is harvest as described above . The parting can be used in a variety of beauty , while the stalks can be sautéed or roasted .
3. Seeds
Chard can also be grown for its seed . permit the flowers to flower andproduceseed head . When the cum head are dry and brown , harvest them and store them in a nerveless , dry place .
Companion Planting
Chard is agreat comrade plantfor tomato , capsicum pepper plant , and Asparagus officinales . Ithelps deter pestsand attract beneficial insects .
Wrap-Up: Chard Harvesting Mastery
control the prowess ofharvesting chard empowersyou to enjoy this nutritive and versatile green year - round . By following the technique outlined in this guide , you may ensure a giving harvest of fresh , flavorful chard . Embrace the delight of turn and harvest your own food , and savor the culinary delight that chard offers .
Frequently Asked Questions
Q : How often should I water chard plants?A : piss chard plant deeplyand on a regular basis , especially during red-hot , dry conditions . shoot for for 1 - 2 inches of body of water per week . Q : Can Iharvest chardin the winter?A : Yes , withproper care . Protect chard plant life from freeze by covering them with a cloche orrow cover . you’re able to alsoharvest baby chardthroughout the winter if the temperature are mild . Q : What are thehealth benefitsof chard?A : Chard is a nutrient - rich food load with vitamin A , vitamin C , and K. It is also agood sourceof roughage , atomic number 19 , and magnesium .
