When to Plant Swiss Chard in Zone 3
Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris
Last updated: Apr 25, 2026 · Sources: USDA, NOAA, Cooperative ExtensionZone 3 Planting Schedule
Start Indoors
Apr 17
6–8 weeks before transplant
Transplant Out
May 15
After last frost (May 15)
Direct Sow
May 15
Directly in garden bed
First Harvest
Jul 13
50–60 days after planting
Season Ends
Aug 22
Before first frost (Sep 15)
Quick Facts
Sunlight
☀️ Full Sun
Water Needs
💧💧 Moderate
Spacing
12 inches apart
Planting Depth
0.5 inch
Min Soil Temp
40°F
Germination
5–14 days
Days to Maturity
50–60 days
Frost Tolerance
Moderate frost tolerance
Soil pH
6.0–7.0
Difficulty
Easy
Recommended for Zone 3
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Swiss Chard Schedule — All Zones
| Zone | Start Indoors | Transplant | Direct Sow | Harvest Start | Harvest End |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 3 | Apr 17 | May 15 | May 15 | Jul 13 | Aug 22 |
| Zone 4 | Apr 12 | May 10 | May 10 | Jul 8 | Aug 17 |
| Zone 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | Jun 28 | Aug 7 |
| Zone 6 | Mar 18 | Apr 15 | Apr 15 | Jun 13 | Jul 23 |
| Zone 7 | Mar 8 | Apr 5 | Apr 5 | Jun 3 | Jul 13 |
| Zone 8 | Feb 20 | Mar 20 | Mar 20 | May 18 | Jun 27 |
| Zone 9 | Jan 31 | Feb 28 | Feb 28 | Apr 28 | Jun 7 |
| Zone 10 | Jan 13 | Feb 10 | Feb 10 | Apr 10 | May 20 |
| Zone 11 | Jan 1 | Jan 15 | Jan 15 | Mar 15 | Apr 24 |
📚 Data Sources
Frost dates: NOAA Climate Normals 1991–2020, National Centers for Environmental Information.Hardiness zones: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, Agricultural Research Service.
Growing requirements: Cooperative Extension Services — NC State, Penn State, University of Florida IFAS.
Companion planting: Cornell University Cooperative Extension.
Data compiled from public agricultural sources. Always verify with your local extension office for micro-climate adjustments.