Swiss Chard illustration 🥬

🥬 Growing Swiss Chard in Zone 1a

Zone 1a has harsh winters and a short growing season. Start Swiss Chard early indoors to maximize your harvest window. Last frost: May 25. First frost: Aug 28.

Planting Calendar

Indoor
Outdoor
Harvest
Apr 27Aug 28

Season: May 25 – Aug 28 (95 days)

Zone1a
Last FrostMay 25
First FrostAug 28
Season Length95 days
Days to Harvest55
SunPart Sun / Part Shade
Frost ToleranceLight
Spacing4/sqft (6" apart)

When to Plant Swiss Chard in Zone 1a

Start Seeds Indoors: Apr 27

Start Swiss Chard seeds indoors around Apr 27 (4 weeks before last frost). Optimal germination temperature: 75°F. Germinates in 7–14 days.

Transplant Outdoors: May 11

Transplant Swiss Chard seedlings outdoors after May 11. Wait until soil temperature reaches 50°F. Space plants at 4/sqft (6" apart). Harden off plants for a week before moving outside.

Harvest: Jun 20

First harvest approximately Jun 20 (~40 days from transplant). Continue harvesting until first frost (Aug 28).

Fall Planting: Jul 3

For a fall harvest, plant Swiss Chard around Jul 3 (8 weeks before first frost).

Plan Your Swiss Chard Garden

Track Swiss Chard from seed to harvest with personalized frost dates, watering recommendations, and companion planting visualization.

Start Free Swiss Chard Growing Guide