silverbeet forkhood Giant One of the oldest open-pollinated varieties of swiss chard in Australia, 'Fordhook Giant' gained popularity in Europe due to its tolerance to warmer weather, flavour and nutritional value. Highly productive, a few plants go a long way, with leaves that can be used in myriad ways from pies and stuffed bread, to dips and casseroles. How to grow Silverbeet is the easiest vegetable to grow and can be harvested for up to 18 months. Related to beetroot, silverbeet prefers a fertile soil, in sun or part shade. Mulch and water silverbeet in dry, hot weather to prevent them from bolting (running to seed) prematurely. Additional fertilising with blood and bone will keep them growing vigorously. Harvest leaf by leaf, as needed, always leaving at least half a dozen leaves to allow the plants to keep on growing. Older plants are more tolerant of over harvesting as they can draw on their swollen roots for nourishment, but it's always best to leave more to keep the plant productive.