SproutSmart
SproutSmart™ Intelligent Garden Sowing

Ruby Red

Lettuce
Zone 11a Save Garden

Planting Schedule

Add Ruby Red to your garden to build a schedule and get reminders.
Botanical illustration of Ruby Red
55d to harvest

Ruby Red brings a jewel-bright splash to the garden—crisp leaves edged in deep ruby and blushed with warm garnet over a cool green base. At maturity (about 55 days), the Batavian heads form sturdy, upright rosettes with a satisfyingly crunchy bite and tender, sweet-green flavor. Ideal for fresh salads and vibrant garnishes, Ruby Red also shines when you want color-forward greens for quick tosses and bold, leafy bowls.

Sowing Tips

Soil Temperature

Direct sow or transplant when soil at planting depth holds 40°F for reliable germination and early growth.

Expert Note

Ruby Red Swiss Chard thrives in rich soil and can tolerate light frost, making it an excellent choice for spring and fall gardens.

Crop Dates

Growing note: In frost-free Zone 11a, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).
MilestoneDate
Start Indoors—
ClimateFrost-Free Climate
Transplant / Sow OutdoorsOct 1st
Harvest BeginsNov 25th
Harvest EndsFeb 28th

Crop Details

TraitValue
Days to Maturity55
Sun RequirementsPart SunPartial sun
Growth HabitRosette
Support NeededNone
Planting DepthSurface
Germination Temp (°F)70
Min Soil Temp (°F)40
Min Night Temp (°F)35
Harden Off (days)6

Today's Conditions

Outdoor planting for Ruby Red in Zone 11a typically begins around 2026-10-01. Wait until soil reaches at least 40°F before transplanting Ruby Red.

Garden Alerts

In frost-free Zone 11a, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).

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Frequently Asked Questions

What pests or diseases commonly affect Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris var. cicla) and how can I control them?
Swiss chard is especially prone to leaf spot and downy mildew in cool, humid weather; remove any infected leaves immediately and avoid wetting foliage when you water. Aphids and leaf miner flies are also frequent—blast aphids off with a strong stream of water and use insecticidal soap if they persist, and remove heavily mined leaves to slow the leaf miner’s spread.
How often should I water Swiss chard during the main growing phase?
During active leaf production, keep soil consistently evenly moist but not waterlogged—aim for about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water per week, adjusted for rainfall and heat. In part-sun beds, check the top 1–2 inches of soil; water when that layer feels dry to the touch to prevent tough, bitter leaves and bolting.
How do I know when Ruby Red Swiss chard is ready to harvest?
Harvest when leaves are large enough for your use, typically around 50–60 days after sowing, with individual outer leaves about 6–10 inches long. Pick outer leaves first and leave the center growing point intact; regular harvesting keeps plants producing tender leaves and reduces the chance of bolting.

Sowing Tips

Soil Temperature

Direct sow or transplant when soil at planting depth holds 40°F for reliable germination and early growth.

Expert Note

Ruby Red Swiss Chard thrives in rich soil and can tolerate light frost, making it an excellent choice for spring and fall gardens.

Botanical illustration of Ruby Red

Ruby Red brings a jewel-bright splash to the garden—crisp leaves edged in deep ruby and blushed with warm garnet over a cool green base. At maturity (about 55 days), the Batavian heads form sturdy, upright rosettes with a satisfyingly crunchy bite and tender, sweet-green flavor. Ideal for fresh salads and vibrant garnishes, Ruby Red also shines when you want color-forward greens for quick tosses and bold, leafy bowls.