Leaf Beet / Chard 'Fordhook Giant'

'Fordhook Giant' is a robust and highly productive variety of Swiss Chard that has been a garden staple for many years. It features large, dark green, crinkled leaves with prominent, broad, creamy-white midribs. This variety is exceptionally hardy and can provide a continuous harvest of leaves for most of the year in the UK, especially if given some protection in winter. The leaves can be used like spinach, while the thick stalks can be cooked separately like asparagus. It is slower to bolt than many other varieties, making it a reliable choice for summer crops. Chard is less demanding than many other vegetables and can tolerate a wide range of soil types and even partial shade. It is also highly ornamental, often used in mixed borders. Regular picking of the outer leaves encourages new growth from the center. It is virtually pest-free, though protection from birds may be needed when plants are young.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Any fertile, well-drained soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul, Aug.