How to Grow Rhubarb Chard
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Rhubarb Chard
Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris
vegetableRhubarb Chard is a colorful leafy green with deep red or crimson stems and veins contrasting against dark green leaves. It is a non-heading variety of Swiss chard valued for both its nutritional content and ornamental appeal in the garden. This cool-season crop is tender, slightly earthy, and can be harvested continuously throughout the growing season.
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Example Rhubarb Chard timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Rhubarb Chard
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 Rhubarb Chard
Around Jun 1≈ 45 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-10; prefers cooler spring and fall conditions but tolerates heat better than most leafy greens
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Seedling
2-3 weeksSmall cotyledons emerge with thin, delicate leaves; true leaves begin appearing within 7-10 days
Keep soil consistently moist; provide gentle light if growing indoors; thin seedlings to proper spacing once true leaves appear
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksRapid leaf expansion with increasingly visible red/crimson stem development; plant forms bushy rosette of leaves
Water regularly; apply balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks; remove any flowering bolts immediately; ensure adequate light
Leaf Development & Maturity
4-8 weeksOuter leaves reach full size with vibrant coloration; stems are thick and tender; plant is dense and productive
Begin selective harvesting of outer leaves; continue regular watering and fertilizing; mulch around base to retain moisture and cool roots
Peak Production
Until frost or summer heat stressPlant continuously produces new leaves from center; outer leaves can be harvested while inner leaves continue growing
Harvest regularly to encourage continued production; deadhead any flower buds; provide consistent moisture and monthly fertilizer applications
Senescence/Bolting
Variable; signal to end harvestPlant may bolt (flower) in response to heat or stress; leaves become tougher and less palatable; flavor may become bitter
Remove flowering stalks to extend harvest; in hot climates, provide afternoon shade; harvest remaining leaves and end season if quality declines
Common Pests
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Remove affected leaves; use row covers on young plants; spray with spinosad or neem oil; encourage natural predators
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Use row covers; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap; dust with diatomaceous earth; plant trap crops nearby
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Spray with strong water stream; use insecticidal soap; apply neem oil; introduce ladybugs or parasitic wasps
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Increase humidity; spray with water; apply neem oil or miticide; ensure adequate air circulation
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Remove infested leaves; use row covers; apply spinosad; practice crop rotation
Uses
Sautéed Greens & Salads
CulinaryRhubarb Chard leaves are tender and slightly earthy when cooked, and can be sautéed with garlic and olive oil as a side dish. Young, tender leaves can also be used raw in salads for a mild, slightly mineral flavor with visual appeal. [source]
Stem Cookery
CulinaryThe vibrant red stems can be separated from leaves and cooked separately as they take longer to tender; they have a slightly sweet, mild beet-like flavor. The stems can be braised, roasted, or added to soups and stews. [source]
Nutritional & Antioxidant Benefits
MedicinalRhubarb Chard is extremely high in vitamins K, A, and C, as well as minerals like magnesium and iron. The red pigmentation indicates the presence of betalain antioxidants, which have anti-inflammatory properties. [source]
Natural Dye Source
HouseholdThe deep red stems and veins can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics and craft projects. The pigments are water-soluble and produce pink to red hues. [source]
Pollinator & Beneficial Insect Support
WildlifeIf allowed to flower, Rhubarb Chard produces nectar and pollen that attract bees and other beneficial pollinators. The plant also supports pest predators that feed on common garden pests. [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 4-6 inches tall; pinch or cut leaves at the base; harvest regularly to encourage continuous production; pick leaves in early morning for best flavor and texture; avoid harvesting more than 1/3 of the plant at once to maintain vigor; continue harvesting until first hard frost or until bolting occurs; younger leaves are more tender
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Rhubarb Chard gets its distinctive red coloring from betalains, the same pigments found in red beets, making it both beautiful and nutrient-dense.
- 🌱 Unlike true rhubarb, chard is safe to eat in large quantities; true rhubarb leaves contain oxalic acid in toxic concentrations, but chard leaves are mild and edible.
- 🌱 A single well-maintained chard plant can produce leaves continuously for 2-3 months or longer, making it one of the most productive cool-season crops per plant.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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