CHARD Bright Lights

Stems of red, purple, pink, orange, yellow and white and shades in between with both green and bronze leaves. Dazzlingly attractive in all stages of growth, with a milder taste than more traditional chards. It has a long production season and may overwinter in sheltered areas, especially if afforded cloche protection. Steam stems and leaves separately for two delicious veg alternatives.

To Sow and Grow: Sow outdoors thinly where they are to crop, 2.5cm (1) deep directly into finely prepared soil which has already been watered. Allow 40cm (16) between rows. Seedlings usually appear in 14-21 days. Thin seedlings to 15cm (6) apart. Water well until plants are established. Regularly pick a few leaves and stems at a time, without stripping the plants, allowing plants to continue growing. Give cloche protection from October onwards to encourage cropping into winter.