Sowing window (UK)April to July
Minimum soil temperature5°C at seed depth
Sowing depth2 cm
Spacing45 cm apart
Days to germination10 days
Days to harvest60 days
Sowing methodDirect sow outdoors
Frost hardyYes
Sunpartial-shade
Wateringmoderate
Plant familyAmaranthaceae

When should I sow Swiss Chard 'Rhubarb Chard' in the UK?

In the UK, sow Swiss Chard 'Rhubarb Chard' from April to July. It is normally sown direct outdoors. Wait until the soil has reached 5°C at seed depth rather than going by the calendar - swiss chard will sit and rot in cold ground.

What soil temperature does Swiss Chard 'Rhubarb Chard' need to germinate?

Swiss Chard 'Rhubarb Chard' needs a minimum soil temperature of 5°C at seed depth to germinate reliably. Below that, germination is slow and patchy, and seed is more likely to rot than sprout. Measure at around 5cm down, in the morning, rather than trusting air temperature.

How deep and how far apart should I sow Swiss Chard 'Rhubarb Chard'?

For Swiss Chard 'Rhubarb Chard', sow it 2cm deep and space plants 45cm apart.

How long does Swiss Chard 'Rhubarb Chard' take to grow?

Swiss Chard 'Rhubarb Chard' takes roughly 60 days from sowing to harvest. Seed usually germinates in about 10 days.

Is Swiss Chard 'Rhubarb Chard' frost hardy?

Yes. Swiss Chard 'Rhubarb Chard' is frost hardy and will stand through UK frosts, so it can be left out over winter in most of the country.

Sowing data cross-checked against RHS growing guides and UK seed-merchant catalogues. Soil temperatures are the minimum for reliable germination, measured at seed depth.