RASPALAK – रसपालक (4.20 Gm)

🌿 How to Grow Organic & Desi Swiss Chard (Raspalak)

☀️ 1. Choose a Sunny Spot

Swiss chard grows best in full sunlight (at least 5–6 hours daily).

It can also tolerate partial shade, especially in hot regions.

Choose an area with good air circulation and well-drained soil.

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🌾 2. Prepare the Soil Organically

The ideal soil is loamy and rich in organic matter.

Mix well-rotted cow dung manure, compost, and a little neem cake powder before sowing.

Soil pH should be around 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).

> 💡 Tip: Avoid using chemical fertilizers — organic matter gives better taste and health benefits.

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🌱 3. Sowing Seeds

Best Time (India):

Plains: October to February

Hills: March to June

Sow seeds ½ inch deep in moist soil.

Keep rows 12–18 inches apart, and thin seedlings later to 8–10 inches apart for healthy growth.

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💧 4. Watering

Keep the soil consistently moist, but don’t overwater.

Water early in the morning or evening to avoid leaf burn.

Avoid waterlogging — it causes root rot.

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🌿 5. Organic Feeding

Every 15 days, give plants:

Cow dung slurry

Vermicompost tea

Jeevamrut or Panchagavya spray

These natural fertilizers boost leaf growth and color.

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🐛 6. Natural Pest & Disease Control

Common pests:

Aphids, leaf miners, and caterpillars.

✅ Organic Control:

Spray neem oil (5ml per liter) once a week.

Use garlic-chili spray for caterpillars.

Remove damaged leaves to stop spread.

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🌼 7. Harvesting

Leaves are ready 45–60 days after sowing.

Pick the outer leaves first, letting inner ones continue growing.

Regular harvesting helps new leaves grow faster.

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🌱 8. After Harvest Care

Keep the bed weed-free.

Add compost after every few harvests.

Swiss chard can keep producing for several months if cared for organically.