Barese Swiss Chard Seeds

Known as the tastiest chard variety, Barese is notably tender and sweet. Though soft and delicate, it will withstand almost any climate. Originating in the Puglia region of southeast Italy, “Cicla de Bari” as it’s called for the port city of Bari, has been carefully preserved through the generations by passionate local growers. Italian immigrants brought seeds to the United States where it quickly gained favour and spread throughout the nation. It is still cherished by gardeners today. 

Barese Swiss chard grows and matures rapidly, providing delectable baby greens and stems in no time. Distinguished for its productivity, gardeners can expect to harvest fresh greens and crisp stalks straight through the growing season. Barese withstands heat and is slow to bolt. Easy to cultivate and maintain, Barese has a tidy, well-behaved compact growing habit, making it a great space saver in the garden. It also takes well to containers, growing only 25-45 cm tall. 

Broad white stems are crunchy and sweet, while the leaves differ in flavour, shape and texture compared to other chard varieties. They’re thicker, juicier and less frilled. The plant itself resembles bok choy. The subtle nutty flavour of the baby greens blends wonderfully into fresh salads or smoothies. Even mature leaves have a delightfully sweet flavour, opening the door to endless possibilities in the kitchen. Barese always shines when steamed, sauteed, stir fried, added to soups, stews, pasta dishes, quiches and especially Asian cuisine. 

Barese Swiss Chard is a standout variety that any seasoned gardener or foodie will certainly want to grow year after year.

GROWING INSTRUCTIONS

Swiss chard is a delight to grow in the home garden. The bright, electric colours dazzle and delight gardeners as much as a summer fireworks display. 

Seeds can be started inside three to four weeks before the last frost to get a head start on the growing season. Otherwise, direct sow into the garden one week after the last frost. Seeds should be planted 1 cm deep, covered and pressed firmly into place. Keep the soil consistently moist and germination will occur in about one week. 

Select a site that receives full sun and amend the space with compost before planting, as chard thrives in rich soil. Water liberally during hot spells to keep leaves lush and prevent wilting. A layer of mulch is very effective for retaining precious moisture while keeping competing weeds down. 

Leaves can be harvested when they reach 15-20 cm tall. Entire heads can be harvested with the crown left intact to allow for regrowth. Alternatively, outer stalks can be plucked casually as needed throughout the growing season. For a leafy green, chard is quite heat tolerant. But it truly shines as a cool weather crop, adding breathtaking colours and essential nutrients after other crops have been exhausted. 

Fresh Swiss chard should be washed and stored in the fridge in breathable plastic bags. Swiss chard doesn’t have the strong bitter taste associated with spinach and kale. When you grow your own Swiss chard, you can tap into your inner culinary artist by adding a splash of colours and serious nutrition to smoothies, stews, salads and pizza.

QUICK FACTS

- Swiss Chard seeds will remain viable for 4 years if stored in a cool, dark place, ideally between 4 and 10⁰C. After that, the germination rate may start to go down.