SWISS CHARD BRIGHT LIGHTS – ORNAMENTAL AND NUTRITIOUS TOO

Swiss chard is commonly called spinach in local garden jargon and continues to be the most planted home grown vegetable in South Africa. The ‘Bright Lights’ or ‘Rainbow’ selection of chards are both highly ornamental and can also be eaten as cooked vegetables or used as fresh salad leaves. The thick fleshy stems are brightly coloured in shades of fluorescent yellow, gold, red, orange and pink whilst the leafy portions are various hues of bronze or green. Use them in the flower garden, as mixed under plantings below rose bushes or to add colour and interest to vegetable and herb gardens. Easy to grow in full sun, preferring rich well drained soils.