How to grow silverbeet in a raised bed

Silverbeet (chard) is the workhorse of the veggie patch — hardy, generous and productive for months from a single planting, at an easy picking height in a raised bed.

Quick facts

• Position: full sun to part shade
• Spacing: 30–40 cm apart
• Tub depth: our 35 cm depth
• Time to harvest: 8–10 weeks, then pick for months

When should I plant silverbeet?

Silverbeet grows almost year-round in most of Australia, slowing only in the coldest weeks. Our free garden calendar shows the right months for your postcode.

• Subtropical (Brisbane & SEQ): All year round
• Temperate (Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth): August to May
• Cool & mountain (Tasmania, Canberra, highlands): September to April
• Tropical (Cairns, Darwin): March to September
• Arid inland: February to October

How do I grow silverbeet in a raised bed?

Plant into rich, moist mix. Pick the outer leaves regularly and the plant keeps pushing out new growth from the centre for months on end.

How often should I water and feed silverbeet?

Keep the mix evenly moist for tender leaves. A steady feed keeps the colour and growth up; Dynamic Lifter suits it well.

What pests attack silverbeet?

Keep an eye out for aphids, caterpillars and slugs and snails. Most are easily managed — see our safe pest guide. Wilting plants that lift out easily? Check for curl grubs.

What diseases affect silverbeet?

The main ones are leaf spot, downy mildew and rust. Good airflow, morning watering and steady moisture prevent most.

What grows well with silverbeet?

Beans and brassicas make good neighbours. See our companion planting guide.

When do I harvest silverbeet?

Harvest the outer leaves by snapping or cutting at the base, leaving the centre to grow on. Use fresh, or blanch and freeze.

Plan your patch: our free garden calendar shows what to plant now where you live. Ready to grow? Browse our raised garden beds or build your own with the garden bed builder.

Image: Acabashi, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.