How to prune swiss chard

Start harvesting outer stems once plants are 20–25 cm tall; continue through the growing season. Cut or snap individual outer stalks cleanly at the base of the plant, leaving at least 4–5 central leaves intact. For bolt stems, cut at soil level the moment they appear.

Every 1–2 weeks during the growing season once established. Swiss chard is a true cut-and-come-again crop — regular harvesting of outer stalks IS the pruning. Remove outer stems at the base from about 5 weeks after sowing, leaving the central growing point intact. Snap off any flower stalks immediately to delay bolting. Remove yellowed outer leaves to maintain plant health.

Cut or snap individual outer stalks cleanly at the base of the plant, leaving at least 4–5 central leaves intact. For bolt stems, cut at soil level the moment they appear.