Summary
Growing Swiss chard indoors is arewarding experiencethat allow for a fresh and nutritious harvest year - pear-shaped . Whether you ’re a veteran nurseryman or a tiro , this comprehensive template will empower you with the cognition and techniques to successfully plant Swiss chard seed indoors .
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Step 2: Prepare the Seed-Starting Mix
Fill the seminal fluid - starting trays or pots with semen - start commixture . This specialised commixture is designed toprovide optimal drainageand aeration for seed germination . Gently press down on the mix to firm it .
Step 3: Plant the Seeds
Sow theSwiss chard seedson the surface of the seed - start mix . Space the seeds about 1 column inch aside . Cover the cum with athin layerof mix .
Step 4: Keep the Soil Moist
weewee theseeds gentlywith aspray bottleor watering can . Keep thesoil moistbut not waterlogged .
Step 5: Provide Light
Swiss chard seeds need light to germinate . position the seed - starting trays or pots under agrow lightor in a gay windowsill . Aim for 14 - 16 hour of brightness per daytime .
Step 6: Monitor Temperature
Theideal temperatureforSwiss chard seed germinationis between 65 - 75 ° F ( 18 - 24 ° C ) . Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature and adjust the clear source orheating matas needed .
Step 7: Thin the Seedlings
Once the seedlings have developed their firsttrue leaves , thin them out . Remove theweaker seedling , allow for the strong unity spaced about 4 - 6 inches apart .
Step 8: Transplant the Seedlings
When the seedlings have developed 4 - 6true leaves , they are ready to be transplanted intoindividual potsor containers . Fill the stack with pot mix and embed the seedlings at the same deepness they were in the seed - starting commixture .
Step 9: Harden Off the Plants
Before transplanting the seedlings out of doors , they necessitate to be hardened off . Gradually disclose them tooutdoor conditionsby placing them in asheltered areafor a few hours each daytime .
Step 10: Transplant Outdoors
When theweather permits , transfer the harden - off seedlings into your garden . Space the plants about 12 - 18 in apart .
Wrapping Up: Indoor Swiss Chard Success
By follow these stair , you cansuccessfully plant Swiss chard seeds indoorsand enjoy a big harvest . Remember to supply adequate luminousness , maintain right wet level , and monitor the temperature to create an optimal surround forseed germinationand seedling development .
Questions You May Have
Q : How long does it take forSwiss chard seedsto germinate?A : Swiss chard seeds typically germinatewithin 7 - 14 days . Q : Can Istart Swiss chard seedsin the fall?A : Yes , Swiss chardis a cool - time of year crop that can bestarted indoorsin the decline for a winter harvest . Q : How long can Swiss chard seedlings stick around indoors?A : Swiss chard seedlingscanstay indoorsfor up to 6 - 8 weeks before they necessitate to be transplanted outdoors .