How to Grow Chard, Fordhook Giant
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Chard, Fordhook Giant
Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla
vegetableFordhook Giant is a large-leafed Swiss chard variety prized for its impressive yield and tender, dark green savoyed leaves with thick, white, succulent stems. This heirloom cultivar produces abundant foliage over an extended harvest period, making it ideal for both home gardeners and market growers.
When should you plant Chard, Fordhook Giant in your zone?
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Example Chard, Fordhook Giant timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Chard, Fordhook Giant
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Chard, Fordhook Giant
Around Jun 11≈ 55 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Chard, Fordhook Giant dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-10; best production in zones 4-8
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Get my Chard, Fordhook Giant timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksSeed germinates in 7-10 days; first true leaves emerge, seedlings develop 2-3 leaves
Keep soil consistently moist. Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart once they have 2-3 true leaves; thin to 1 plant per cluster. Provide bright light to prevent leggy growth.
Vegetative/Leaf Development
4-6 weeksRapid leaf expansion; plant grows 8-12 inches tall with large, deeply savoyed dark green leaves and prominent white petioles (stems)
Water consistently. Begin harvesting outer leaves once plant is 6-8 inches tall. Side-dress with compost or balanced fertilizer every 3-4 weeks. Mulch around base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Peak Productivity
6-8 weeksPlant reaches full size (18-24 inches tall) with abundant large leaves on thick white stems; continuous new leaf production from the center
Continue consistent watering (1-2 inches weekly). Harvest outer leaves regularly to encourage new growth and extend production. Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves. Monitor for pests.
Extended Harvest
8-12 weeksPlant maintains vigorous growth; continues producing new leaves from the center crown even as outer leaves are harvested repeatedly
Maintain regular watering and fertilizing schedule. Keep harvesting to promote continued productivity. In cool seasons, this phase can extend 8-10 weeks or more. Protect from extreme heat or cold.
Decline/Bolting
Variable; triggered by temperature extremesPlant eventually bolts (flowers) or slows production in extreme heat or after frost exposure; flowering stalk with tiny yellow-green flowers emerges
Once bolting begins, remove flower stalks to delay decline if possible. Plan succession plantings for continuous harvest. Can be removed from garden to make room for fall crops.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Use floating row covers on seedlings; spray neem oil or insecticidal soap for heavy infestations; remove and destroy affected leaves; encourage natural predators
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Remove heavily infested leaves; use reflective mulches to deter; introduce parasitoid wasps; handpick affected leaves; maintain good sanitation
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Spray with strong water stream to dislodge; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings
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Increase humidity around plants; spray with water; use neem oil or miticide if severe; avoid excessive nitrogen fertilization
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and
Hand-pick in early morning or evening; use beer traps; apply diatomaceous earth; encourage predatory beetles; remove hiding spots (debris)
Uses
Cooking Greens & Sautéing
CulinaryFordhook Giant is excellent sautéed as a cooked green, with tender leaves and mild, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with garlic and olive oil. The thick stems are edible and nutritious, with a tender texture when cooked. [source]
Raw Salads
CulinaryYoung, tender leaves are excellent in fresh salads, offering a mild flavor and pleasant texture. The large leaves make attractive presentations and can be torn or cut for mixed green salads. [source]
Nutritional & Antioxidant Properties
MedicinalSwiss chard is rich in vitamins K, A, and C, plus magnesium, potassium, iron, and antioxidant compounds. Regular consumption supports bone health, cardiovascular function, and general wellness. [source]
Extended Storage & Preservation
HouseholdFordhook Giant leaves store well in refrigeration (up to 5 days) and can be blanched and frozen for winter use. The high yield makes it ideal for home preservation and meal planning. [source]
Nutritious Livestock & Garden Pest Habitat
WildlifeChard leaves are nutritious for poultry, rabbits, and other farm animals. The plant also attracts beneficial insects that help control garden pests, supporting integrated pest management. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Begin harvesting outer leaves when plant is 6-8 inches tall by cutting 2-3 inches above the soil line. This stimulates new growth from the center. Continue regular harvesting to extend productivity; mature leaves are more nutritious and robust than baby leaves. Harvest in early morning for best flavor and texture. The entire plant can also be cut 1-2 inches above soil for regrowth, or left to provide a second or third harvest. Fordhook Giant produces continuously for 2-3 months or more in ideal conditions.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Fordhook Giant was bred and introduced by the Burpee seed company in the early 20th century and remains one of the most popular large-leafed chard varieties today.
- 🌱 Swiss chard is not actually from Switzerland—the 'Swiss' designation comes from a 19th-century Swiss seedsman who popularized it, though chard itself originated in the Mediterranean region.
- 🌱 A single chard plant can produce harvestable leaves for 60-90 days or more with proper care, making it one of the most productive vegetables per square foot of garden space.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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