1. Choose the Right Spot
Sunlight: Select a location with full sun to partial shade. Silverbeet thrives in 6+ hours of sunlight daily.
Soil: Ensure the soil is rich, well-drained, and slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.5). Add compost or well-rotted manure to enrich it.
2. Timing
Plant seedlings in spring after the last frost, or in autumn in mild climates.
Silverbeet can tolerate light frosts and grows well in cooler temperatures.
3. Prepare the Soil
Loosen the soil with a garden fork to improve drainage.
Mix in compost or aged manure to boost fertility.
4. Plant the Seedlings
Spacing: Space seedlings 30 cm apart in rows 45 cm apart to give them room to grow.
Planting Depth: Plant them at the same depth they were in their seedling tray.
Firm the soil around the base of each plant gently.
5. Watering
Water the plants thoroughly after planting.
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply 1–2 times a week.
6. Mulch
Apply a layer of mulch (straw, grass clippings, or wood chips) around the plants to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
7. Fertilizing
Feed the plants every 4–6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer or liquid seaweed solution for healthy leaf growth.
8. Pest and Disease Control
Watch for aphids, caterpillars, and snails. Use organic pest control methods like neem oil or handpicking.
Ensure good airflow to prevent fungal diseases.
9. Harvesting
Start harvesting the outer leaves when they are 20–30 cm long (about 8–10 weeks after planting).
Leave the central leaves intact to allow continuous growth.
By following these steps, you'll have a steady supply of nutritious silverbeet!