Chard Seeds - Japanese Umaina

Name: Chard Seeds - Japanese Umaina
Brand: Alliance of Native Seedkeepers
SKU: JC1
Price: 2.0 USD
Availability: InStock

Unique Asian chard with tender leaves and mild, spinach-like flavor.

Alliance of Native Seedkeepers | SKU: JC1

Sustainability features Details

1-Year Warranty Details

Non-GMO / BE Policy Details

— seeds / pkt

Description

Introducing Japanese Chard 'Umaina', a versatile leafy green that brings a unique touch to your garden and kitchen. This exceptional chard variety is known for its tender, broad leaves that mature in approximately 50 to 60 days. The vibrant green foliage with striking white stems offers both visual appeal and culinary versatility, making it an excellent choice for salads, sautés, and soups.

Japanese Chard 'Umaina' thrives in cool weather and can be planted in early spring or late summer for a continuous harvest. With a growth habit reaching up to 18 inches in height, this chard is perfect for small garden spaces or container gardening. Its mild, slightly sweet flavor is complemented by a crunchy texture, making it a delightful addition to a variety of dishes.

This robust cultivar is not only easy to grow but also highly productive, providing a steady yield throughout the growing season. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a beginner, Japanese Chard 'Umaina' offers a rewarding growing experience with its reliable performance and delectable taste. Embrace the opportunity to cultivate this distinctive chard and enhance your culinary creations with its fresh, nutritious leaves.

$2⁰⁰ USD

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Minimum Seed Count

100

Life Cycle

Biennial

Scientific Name

Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla

Maturity

50-59 Days (from transplant)

Grow Location

In-ground bed, Raised bed, Greenhouse, High Tunnel, Community garden, Hydroponic, Vertical, Indoor growing

Non-GMO Safe Seed Pledge

Common Pests & Problems — 'Japanese Chard - Umaina' (Beta vulgaris var. cicla)Insects & MitesLeaf Miners (serpentine mines on leaves)Controls: Remove and destroy infested leaves to reduce larvae populations. Use floating row covers to prevent adult flies from laying eggs. Introduce beneficial insects like parasitic wasps (Diglyphus isaea) to naturally control leaf miner populations.Flea Beetles (small holes in leaves, reduced growth)Controls: Apply diatomaceous earth around plants to deter beetles. Use row covers to protect young plants. Encourage natural predators such as ground beetles and predatory nematodes. In severe cases, apply neem oil as a last resort.DiseasesDowny Mildew (Peronospora farinosa, yellow patches, white downy growth)Controls: Ensure good air circulation by spacing plants adequately. Water at the base to keep foliage dry. Remove and destroy infected plant material. Apply copper-based fungicides as a preventive measure if conditions are conducive to disease.Cercospora Leaf Spot (Cercospora beticola, circular spots with gray centers)Controls: Rotate crops and avoid planting chard in the same location each year. Remove debris and weeds that can harbor the disease. Apply fungicides containing chlorothalonil or mancozeb if necessary.Physiological & Environmental IssuesBolting (premature flowering due to temperature fluctuations)Controls: Plant in early spring or late summer to avoid temperature extremes. Use mulch to maintain consistent soil moisture and temperature. Select bolt-resistant varieties if available.Nutrient Deficiency (yellowing leaves, stunted growth)Controls: Conduct a soil test to determine nutrient levels. Amend soil with well-rotted compost or balanced organic fertilizer. Ensure consistent watering to help nutrient uptake.Monitoring & Prevention — Quick Checklist- Inspect plants regularly for signs of pests and diseases.- Practice crop rotation to prevent soil-borne diseases.- Use row covers to protect against insect pests.- Maintain garden hygiene by removing debris and weeds.- Apply organic mulches to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature.- Encourage beneficial insects by planting companion plants.

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Japanese Chard, known as Umaina, emerges from the fertile and temperate fields of Japan, where it has been cultivated for generations. The name Umaina translates to \"delicious vegetable\" in Japanese, a testament to its revered place in the culinary traditions of the region. The vibrant green leaves and colorful stalks of Umaina sway gently in the breeze, resembling a patchwork quilt of nature's bounty.For centuries, Umaina has been a staple in Japanese households, cherished not only for its mild, sweet flavor but also for its nutritional benefits. Japanese cooks incorporate it into a variety of dishes, from stir-fries and soups to salads and pickles, often highlighting its versatility and healthful qualities. During the Edo period, Umaina was particularly valued in temple cuisine, where it was used in shōjin ryōri, the vegetarian meals prepared by Buddhist monks, symbolizing purity and simplicity.Beyond the kitchen, Umaina held a place in traditional medicine, believed to aid digestion and boost vitality. In rural communities, it was common to find Umaina growing alongside rice paddies and vegetable gardens, a testament to its adaptability and importance in the agrarian lifestyle. The plant's resilience and ability to thrive in various climates made it a reliable crop, sustaining families through changing seasons.Despite its long history in Japan, Umaina gained international attention in the late 20th century, as global interest in diverse and nutritious greens expanded. Chefs and home gardeners alike began to appreciate its unique qualities, leading to its inclusion in gourmet dishes and health-conscious diets worldwide. Its mild flavor and tender texture made it a favorite among those seeking alternatives to more common greens like spinach and kale.Botanically, Umaina is a member of the Beta vulgaris species, sharing lineage with Swiss chard and beets. This connection explains its nutritional profile, rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like magnesium and potassium. Its genetic heritage contributes to its hardiness and vibrant appearance, traits that have endeared it to gardeners and farmers across the globe.While other leafy greens may garner more attention in the culinary world, Japanese Chard remains a beloved staple in its homeland. It is a symbol of the enduring relationship between the Japanese people and their land, a connection that honors both tradition and innovation. To cultivate Umaina today is to participate in a legacy that spans centuries, celebrating the farmers who first nurtured its growth and the modern enthusiasts who continue to savor its delightful flavor.

Shipped from U.S.A.

Our seeds are grown and sourced from the US. They're then packed and shipped from Colerain NC.

Triple tested

We regularly test the quality and germination rate of our seeds. We're so confident that our seeds are backed by a 1 year warranty!

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