Gourmet Greens
Renee's brand-new blend of some of the most succulent greens in the garden, combining seeds for Ruby Queen and Bulls Blood beets with Silverado and Eldorado chards. Sow it thickly, and when seedlings are several inches tall, snip some for salads. Then when the rest reaches 4 to 6 inches tall, just use a scissors to snip off meal size portions to sauté or quickly braise. This tasty and tender mix is absolutely rich tasting and delicious either way.
Equal parts: Bulls Blood and Ruby Queen Beets; Silverado and Eldorado Chards
Seed Count: Approx. 500 / Weight: 6 g
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April - Aug.
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Feb. - Sept.
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Full sun
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1/2 in. apart
1/2 in. deep
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7 - 12 days
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40 - 50 days
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Best To Start Directly Outdoors
In cool early spring weather, sow seeds in finely worked soil in full sun. Shake seeds from the palm of your hand, broadcasting them about 1/2 in. apart over the entire seedbed or in wide rows, and cover lightly and evenly with 1/4 in. of fine soil. Firm soil gently and water with a fine spray. Keep seedbed evenly moist. Make small successive sowings until summer weather turns really hot for a constant supply. Plant again in late summer for fall harvesting.
Growing Notes
Grow either in garden beds or large containers for a tasty and nutritious "color bowl" to snip as needed. These leafy greens have best flavor with consistent moisture and mild weather conditions. Protect your young seedlings from hungry birds with netting or floating row covers if necessary. After cutting, water the remaining plant tops well, fertilize lightly and plants will regrow for several more leafy harvests.
Harvest and Use
Using the "cut and come again" method, take scissors and shear about 1 in. above the soil level. Cut the leaves when they are 2 to 3 inches tall for tender baby "micro" salad leaves, or let the mix grow 4 to 6 inches tall for sweet and nutty braising greens. Steam or sauté very quickly in a little broth and finish with a drizzle of good olive oil and a squeeze of lemon or your favorite hot sauce.
