How to Grow Swiss Chard Using a Hydroponic System for Beginners
Basic Data
- ☀ Ideal Temperature: Swiss Chard thrives in temperatures between 50°F to 75°F.
- 🌱 Germination Time: Usually takes 5 to 7 days to germinate.
- 📅 Time to Maturity: Typically matures in about 50 to 60 days.
Germination Steps
- Step 1: Soak the planting sponge and gently squeeze out excess moisture.
- Step 2: Place Swiss Chard seeds into the damp sponge.
- Step 3: Keep in a well-lit area until seeds germinate.
- Step 4: Transfer the sponge with the sprouted seeds to the Growneer hydroponic system.
Growing Process
Light Requirements Table
| Stage | Light Duration | Light Spectrum | Light Intensity |
| Germination | Not required | Not applicable | Not applicable |
| Seedling | 12-14 hours/day | Full spectrum | 150-200 µmol/m²/s |
| Vegetative | 14-16 hours/day | Full spectrum | 200-300 µmol/m²/s |
| Mature | 14-16 hours/day | Full spectrum | 200-300 µmol/m²/s |
- 💧 Water Pump Volume and Duration: Set to cycle every 20 minutes.
- 🔧 pH Value: 6.0 to 7.0.
- 🍼 Nutrient Ratio:
- Nitrogen: 150 parts per million
- Phosphorus: 50 parts per million
- Potassium: 200 parts per million
- Calcium: 200 parts per million
- Magnesium: 75 parts per million
- Trace Elements: Include Iron, Manganese, Zinc at 1 part per million each as needed.
Plant Benefits
- Nutrient-Rich: Swiss Chard is loaded with vitamins K, A, and C, as well as minerals like magnesium, manganese, and iron.
- Colorful Leaves: Provides aesthetic appeal with its vividly colored stems and deep green leaves.
- Versatile Culinary Uses: Can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to sautéed greens.
Conclusion
Swiss Chard is a fantastic choice for beginners in hydroponic gardening due to its robust nature and minimal care requirements. This colorful and nutritious leafy green can thrive in a hydroponic system, offering a continuous harvest of vitamin-rich leaves. Enjoy the fresh, crisp taste of Swiss Chard in your meals, enhancing both the health and flavor profiles of your dishes.
