Swiss Chard Bright Lights - Ferme de Sainte Marthe seeds

'Bright Lights' is an award-winning collection of Swiss chard varieties that are as colourful as they are tasty. Enjoy the pink, red, yellow and white-stemmed plants from July to October. If the winter is mild, they will even grow back again in Spring! Sow from April to July.

Chard (Beta vulgaris), also known as leaf beet or silver beet, is a leaf vegetable that has regained popularity over recent years. Its edible stems come in an array of colours, from white to red, purple or yellow. They are delicious in gratin, sautéed or lightly steamed. The leaves can be used like spinach in quiches, omelettes or soups. Chard is low in calories and high in fibre, vitamins and minerals. However, it also contains oxalates and should be eaten in moderation, especially by those suffering from arthritis or rheumatic disorders.

Harvesting: harvest the larger leaves as and when required

Storage: chard will stay fresh in the refrigerator for a few days

Good to know: Mulching with grass clippings or dead leaves is recommended, especially during hot dry spells, as this will help keep the soil moist whilst limiting weed growth.

NB. Organic seeds (in French "AB" for "Agriculture Biologique") are produced from plants that aren't treated with phytosanitary products (insecticides, weed killers). The seeds do not undergo post-harvest treatment. They carry the AB label and are approved by Ecocert, an independent structure.