Growli

Troubleshooting

Swiss Chard 'Peppermint' problems — and how to fix them

Swiss Chard 'Peppermint' (Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla 'Peppermint') 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

Heat or an early cold check pushes plants to flower; sow in succession, water steadily and give light afternoon shade in hot spells.

Beet leaf miner

Larvae mine pale blisters within the leaves; pick off affected leaves promptly and cover plants with fine insect mesh.

Faded stem colour

Insufficient light or over-mature leaves dull the pink striping; grow in full sun and harvest young for the brightest stems.

Slugs and snails

Seedlings and young leaves are heavily grazed overnight; protect with barriers, traps or evening hand-picking.

Prevent swiss chard 'peppermint' problems before they start

Most swiss chard 'peppermint' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:

Looking for swiss chard 'peppermint' in general rather than its problems? Read the full swiss chard 'peppermint' care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.

Swiss Chard 'Peppermint' problems — FAQ

Why is my swiss chard 'peppermint' bolting?

Heat or an early cold check pushes plants to flower; sow in succession, water steadily and give light afternoon shade in hot spells.

Why is my swiss chard 'peppermint' beet leaf miner?

Larvae mine pale blisters within the leaves; pick off affected leaves promptly and cover plants with fine insect mesh.

Why is my swiss chard 'peppermint' faded stem colour?

Insufficient light or over-mature leaves dull the pink striping; grow in full sun and harvest young for the brightest stems.

Why is my swiss chard 'peppermint' slugs and snails?

Seedlings and young leaves are heavily grazed overnight; protect with barriers, traps or evening hand-picking.