Swiss Chard illustration 🥬

🥬 Growing Swiss Chard in Zone 3b

Zone 3b has harsh winters and a short growing season. Start Swiss Chard early indoors to maximize your harvest window. Last frost: May 15. First frost: Sep 22.

Planting Calendar

Indoor
Outdoor
Harvest
Apr 17Sep 22

Season: May 15 – Sep 22 (130 days)

Zone3b
Last FrostMay 15
First FrostSep 22
Season Length130 days
Days to Harvest55
SunPart Sun / Part Shade
Frost ToleranceLight
Spacing4/sqft (6" apart)

When to Plant Swiss Chard in Zone 3b

Start Seeds Indoors: Apr 17

Start Swiss Chard seeds indoors around Apr 17 (4 weeks before last frost). Optimal germination temperature: 75°F. Germinates in 7–14 days.

Transplant Outdoors: May 1

Transplant Swiss Chard seedlings outdoors after May 1. 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 10

First harvest approximately Jun 10 (~40 days from transplant). Continue harvesting until first frost (Sep 22).

Fall Planting: Jul 28

For a fall harvest, plant Swiss Chard around Jul 28 (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