Growing Swiss Chard

Swiss Chard is easy to grow. Plant the seeds in the spring and harvest anytime, from baby leaves for salad to larger leaves for cooking. Burpee's carries 'Bright Lights', a packet containing several colors. You can also purchas 'Rhubarb Chard' that has crimson stalks and glossy green, crinkled leaves, or 'Fordhook Giant' with dark green, thick, tender leaves.

Wilting Basil

In my experience, even though it is an herb basil actually needs a "normal" amount of water. If the soil feels dry and the plant recovers when you water it, then it needs more water--either more frequent watering, or more thorough watering. When you apply water, soak the entire rootball--rather than just sprinkling the surface. (Be sure to allow excess water to drain away.) When the soil surface dries out, it's time to water again.

There are two other possibilities, however. One is that the plant is simply reacting to heat and perhaps wind and cannot take up water fast enough to make up for the speed at which it is transpiring. In this case it may wilt slightly even when it has been well watered. Providing it with a bit of shade at noon or during the afternoon will help if this is the case. Another possibility is that the roots have begun to fill the container, and it needs a larger pot with more soil.

Harvest Edible Flowers

Edible flowers such as borage, calendula, nasturtium, pansy, and rose taste best when picked and eaten the same day. Harvest flowers in the morning, after the dew has dried to adorn salads, soups, and entrees.