Description

Spinach Swiss Chard Fordhook Giant (Beta vulgaris var. cicla) is a robust, high-yielding leafy green known for its large, glossy, dark green leaves and thick white stalks. Unlike true spinach, this heat-tolerant chard performs exceptionally well in South Africa’s diverse climates, from the cooler Highveld and coastal regions to warmer inland areas.

This variety is a cut-and-come-again crop, providing continuous harvests over many months when picked regularly. It thrives in both full sun and partial shade, making it adaptable to a wide range of garden spaces or containers.

Fordhook Giant matures in about 60-65 days from sowing and is valued for both its culinary versatility and nutritional density. Due to its mild and slightly earthy notes it is ideal for sautéing, soups, stews, and green smoothies, offering a dependable leafy green option for home gardeners year-round.

 

Benefits

Resilient, Productive and Versatile 

• Tolerant of heat and partial shade, ideal for South African summers and winter rainfall regions.
  
• Cut-and-come-again harvesting ensures long productive periods.
  
• Excellent choice for home gardens, schools, and small-scale farms.

Insect Repellant and Pollinator

• While not a pollinator magnet, its dense growth suppresses weeds and deters some insect pests.
  

Nutritional and Medicinal 

• Excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin A, and vitamin C – supports bone health, vision, and immune system.
  
• High in magnesium, iron, and antioxidants – supports energy production and reduces inflammation.
  
• Contains fibre to promote digestion and heart health.
  

 

How To Use

Spinach Swiss Chard Fordhook Giant flourishes under the following conditions:

• Season: Year Round
• Temperature: 15-25°C
• Germinate: 7-14 days
• Depth: 10 mm
• Spacing: 7x30 cm
• Harvest: 60-65 days
• Height: 60-70 cm
• Flowering Season: Late summer if allowed to bolt
• Exposure: Full sun to partial shade (minimum 4–6 hours)

Ideal Growing Environment 

• Prefers a well drained substrate with amendments or pre-made soil containing all the necessary base additives.Ideal pH 6.2–7.0.
  
• Keep soil consistently moist; avoid drought stress to prevent bitterness.
  
• Apply compost at planting; follow up with organic nitrogen feed every 4–6 weeks.
  
• Prefers moderate humidity (55–75%). Ensure spacing for good airflow to reduce mildew risk.
  
• Performs exceptionally well in temperate to subtropical South African climates. Protect from frost in high-altitude zones.
• Benefits from being planted alongside broccoli, cabbage, celery, onions, beans, lettuce, and radish.
• Intercropping: Pair with carrots, radish, or chamomile for pest control.
• Crop Rotation: Plant after heavy feeders or legumes. Follow with root crops or herbs.
• Soil Rejuvenation: Till in residues to add organic matter.
• Avoid planting with potatoes and corn – they can overshadow or compete for nutrients.

 

For placement of large orders contact us at: office@greenhouston.co.za