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What is Chard?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Chard is a relative of beets, and the leaves of the two plants look very similar. This plant, however, has been bred to have highly nutritious and flavorful leaves at the expense of the root, which is not edible. The most common type under cultivation is Swiss chard, which has brilliant green leaves and bright white or colored stalks. It is also related to spinach and has a slightly bitter, salty flavor popular among some consumers.

In appearance, chard is a cluster of slightly ruffled fan-like leaves with rich color saturation and bright stems. Many gardeners prize this plant for its ornamental as well as edible qualities. The leaves and stalks are edible, and like many leafy green vegetables, they are rich in a dazzling array of minerals. Chard has high levels of magnesium, calcium, vitamin K, iron, potassium, vitamin A, folate, zinc, copper, vitamin C, dietary fiber, and vitamin E. In addition to brightening up your day, a delicious serving can improve your health.

Chard leaves should not be stored near fruits that contain ethylene gas, such as pears, which hasten ripening and decay.
Chard leaves should not be stored near fruits that contain ethylene gas, such as pears, which hasten ripening and decay.

Young chard can be eaten raw, although its slightly bitter flavor may be off putting. Usually, the leaves is cooked before being eaten, and the stems trimmed. It can be steamed, roasted, grilled, or sauteed and is excellent on its own or as a dressing for pasta and other grains. It is used in a variety of cuisines and prized for its astringent flavor. Chard is a valuable dietary supplement for vegans and vegetarians, who should always eat plenty green leafy vegetables.

Chard is very popular in Mediterranean cuisine, appearing on pizza, in risotto, and as a plain side dish. The highly nutritious leaves can be mixed in with most Mediterranean dishes, including soups, to add texture and flavor.

Chard features a variety of stem colors.
Chard features a variety of stem colors.

To grow chard, space plants 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) apart in loose, well drained soil. If the soil is heavy or clay like, break it up with compost before planting. This plant enjoys cooler weather and sunlight, although it will tolerate frost and can be grown through the winter in mild climates. Chard should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, when young. Plant it approximately two weeks before the last spring frost, along with beets, for the best quality greens. Unless you are planting in an extremely cold region, the seeds can technically be planted year round for continuous harvest.

Chard is highly popular around the Mediterranean, and features prominently in that region's cuisine.
Chard is highly popular around the Mediterranean, and features prominently in that region's cuisine.

To harvest chard, simply cut the leaves off at the base as they mature. Older leaves should be trimmed and discarded so that the plant doesn't waste energy supplying nutrients to them. Younger leaves in the core can be left on until they are older or the gardener is ready to eat them. When harvested properly, chard can yield a second set of leaves from the same root. The leaves can be stored under refrigeration for up to two weeks, as long as it is not stored near fruits containing ethylene gas, such as apples and pears, which will hasten ripening and decay.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a DelightedCooking researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a DelightedCooking researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

anon74543

where can I buy chard in Melbourne Australia?

sputnik

Chard has lots of fiber, carotenes and calcium. When buying chard look for firm stalks and vibrant leaves.

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    • Chard leaves should not be stored near fruits that contain ethylene gas, such as pears, which hasten ripening and decay.
      By: Lana Langlois
      Chard leaves should not be stored near fruits that contain ethylene gas, such as pears, which hasten ripening and decay.
    • Chard features a variety of stem colors.
      By: Quanthem
      Chard features a variety of stem colors.
    • Chard is highly popular around the Mediterranean, and features prominently in that region's cuisine.
      By: david hughes
      Chard is highly popular around the Mediterranean, and features prominently in that region's cuisine.
    • Spinach can be used interchangeably with chard in most recipes.
      By: mates
      Spinach can be used interchangeably with chard in most recipes.
    • Chard and other greens can add nutrients to a vegetarian pizza.
      By: emde71
      Chard and other greens can add nutrients to a vegetarian pizza.