When to plant Chard in Earleton, FL
Earleton gardeners should plant Chard between February 2 and February 23 in spring. With Earleton's Zone 9a climate (last frost February 23), Chard needs 50–60 days to mature — plant by September 28 for a full harvest. A second sowing from October 2 to October 16 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Chard in Earleton, FL
Swiss chard is a colorful, heat-tolerant green with large crinkled leaves and vibrant stalks in red, yellow, and white. Both the leaves and stems are edible and nutritious.
Earleton, Florida is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is February 23 and the first fall frost is November 27, giving you a growing season of approximately 277 days.
At an elevation of 398 feet, Alachua County receives approximately 50 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sand soil. Summer highs average 99°F, so Chard may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Chard will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients.
Earleton Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
5.2-6.1
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Chard
Chard needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Chard Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 2.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | 4.3" | 2.7" | 1.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| Mar | 4.3" | 2.7" | 1.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| Apr | 4.3" | 2.5" | 1.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 3.2" | 1.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 7.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 7.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 6.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 6.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 4.3" | 4.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Nov | 4.3" | 1.9" | 2.4" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Dec | — | 1.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Feb–Nov in Alachua County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Chard Planting Timeline — Earleton, FL
Chard Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | January 26 | Jan 26 – Feb 9 |
| Transplant Outdoors | February 23 | Feb 23 – Mar 9 |
| Direct Sow | February 2 | Feb 2 – Feb 23 |
| Harvest | April 20 | Apr 20 – Jun 8 |
| Fall Sowing | October 2 | Oct 2 – Oct 16 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors |
| February | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| March | Transplant Outdoors |
| April | Harvest |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | Fall Sowing |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
50–60 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 9a
📆 Growing Season
277 days in Alachua County
Growing Tips for Earleton
Direct sow or transplant after last frost. Harvest outer leaves regularly to encourage continuous production. Chard tolerates both heat and light frost.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Chard in Other Locations
When should I plant Chard in Earleton, FL?
In Earleton, FL, plant Chard after the last frost (around February 23) and before the first frost (around November 27). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Earleton, FL for Chard?
Earleton sits in USDA Zone 9a. Chard grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Chard grow in Earleton's climate?
Yes — Chard grows well in Earleton's temperate climate. Earleton averages a 278-day frost-free season, with last frost around February 23 and first frost around November 27.
Your Alachua County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Alachua County (Zone 9a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.