Troubleshooting
Swiss chard problems — and how to fix them
Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Bolting in heat
Goes to seed above 27°C; sow heat-tolerant varieties for summer.
Leaf miner
Tan tunnels in leaves; pinch off and destroy.
Slugs
Common on young leaves; ring with grit.
Yellow leaves
Nitrogen deficiency or waterlogged soil.
Powdery mildew
Late season; improve air flow.
Prevent swiss chard problems before they start
Most swiss chard issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
- Common beet problems — the species this cultivar belongs to
- Common swiss chard problems — our other guide for the same plant
- What's wrong with my plant? — the diagnosis apps compared
- Swiss chard watering schedule
- Swiss chard light requirements
- Best soil mix for swiss chard
- Swiss chard temperature & humidity
- Full swiss chard care guide
Looking for swiss chard in general rather than its problems? Read the full swiss chard care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Swiss chard problems — FAQ
Why is my swiss chard bolting in heat?
Goes to seed above 27°C; sow heat-tolerant varieties for summer.
Why is my swiss chard leaf miner?
Tan tunnels in leaves; pinch off and destroy.
Why is my swiss chard slugs?
Common on young leaves; ring with grit.
Why is my swiss chard yellow leaves?
Nitrogen deficiency or waterlogged soil.
Why is my swiss chard powdery mildew?
Late season; improve air flow.