Chard

Beta vulgaris var. cicla

1. Identification and origin

Chard (Beta vulgaris var. cicla L.) belongs to the Amaranthaceae family and is native to the Mediterranean region. It is one of the vegetable varieties derived from the species Beta vulgaris, cultivated mainly for its broad leaves and developed petioles.

2. Economic importance

It is a vegetable frequently consumed in Europe, valued for its continuous production, high hardiness and good adaptation to different cultivation systems, including organic farming. It has commercial importance in local markets, catering and local supply.

3. Botanical characterisation

A biennial plant cultivated as an annual, with large, glossy leaves of green or reddish colouration, depending on the variety. The petioles are thick and fleshy, constituting the most consumed part. The root system is taprooted and relatively deep. Flowering occurs in the second year, with spike-shaped inflorescences and small, rough seeds.

4. Soil and climate requirements

It prefers temperate climates, tolerating mild temperatures and light frosts well. It develops best in fertile, deep, well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It requires good water availability, but is sensitive to waterlogging. It benefits from appropriate rotations to avoid soil-borne diseases.

5. Main pests

• Aphids (Aphis fabae, Myzus persicae): leaf curling and transmission of viral diseases.
• Beet fly (Pegomya betae): galleries in the leaves.
• Noctuids (Spodoptera spp., Mamestra brassicae): extensive perforations.
• Slugs and snails: damage to young leaves.
• Mites (Tetranychus urticae): discolouration and necrosis.

6. Main diseases

• Cercospora leaf spot (Cercospora beticola): circular leaf spots.
• Powdery mildew (Erysiphe betae): white coating and loss of vigour.
• Downy mildew (Peronospora farinosa f. sp. betae): yellow spots and necrosis.
• Soil rots (Rhizoctonia, Pythium, Fusarium spp.): death of seedlings and decline.
• Viral diseases (BMYV, BChV): mosaics and reduced growth.

7. General crop management

It includes the choice of varieties adapted to the local climate, establishment in fertile, well-drained soils, regular irrigation without waterlogging, weed control, frequent monitoring of pests and diseases and the use of appropriate rotations. Integrated protection is essential, with particular attention to aphids and leaf diseases.

Bibliographic references

• Biancardi, E., Campbell, L. G., Skaracis, G. N., & De Biaggi, M. (2005). Beta maritima: The Origin of Beets. Springer.
• Whitney, E. D., & Duffus, J. E. (1986). Compendium of Beet Diseases and Insects. APS Press.
• FAO. Crop Production Guidelines for Leafy Vegetables.
• European Commission. Guidelines for Integrated Pest Management in Leafy Crops.