Rhubarb has dark green crumpled leaves with wine red veins borne on bright crimson leafstalks, 20-24 inches tall. Pest Control Pests affecting Swiss chard are similar to those in spinach. Control measures for home gardeners and commercial plantings are limited. Harvesting Harvesting is done by removing the outer leaves, allowing the center leaves to grow. Stems of these outer leaves should be cut, while still tender, 1-2 inches above the soil surface.
Leaves are of best quality just when fully expanded or slightly smaller.
Take care to avoid damage to the growing bud in the center of the growing leaves. When harvested carefully, chard will continue to produce leaves through the summer into late fall. Swiss chard is prepared for market by washing thoroughly, discarding any yellowed or damaged leaves, and bunching the leaves. Storage is not recommended, although quality can be maintained for a shorticulture time by icing and refrigeration. Acknowlegements Sections of this publication are based on information originally provided by Ralph Neild, Ph. D., former Professor Emeritus, Department of hort.