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Rhubarb, a hardy perennial, is a garden favorite for many. But have you ever heard of forced rhubarb? This unique method transforms the humble rhubarb into something extraordinary. Let’s dive into the world of forced rhubarb and discover how you can grow this delightful plant in your own garden.
How to grow Forced Rhubarb
To grow forced rhubarb, cover crowns in early winter with a forcing jar or dark container to exclude light. Place in a warm, dark environment for about 8 weeks. Transfer to a well-lit area, and harvest the tender stems. In the UK climate, forced rhubarb provides an early, sweet harvest for culinary delights.
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Introduction to Forced Rhubarb
Forced rhubarb is a gardening technique that involves growing rhubarb in darkness to produce early, tender, and sweeter stalks. This method is not just about growing a plant; it’s about creating a culinary delight that’s both visually appealing and deliciously different from your standard rhubarb.
Understanding the Basics of Forced Rhubarb
What is Forced Rhubarb?
Forced rhubarb is grown in the absence of light, which accelerates its growth and changes its flavor profile. This technique results in rhubarb that is paler in color but richer in taste compared to its sun-grown counterpart.
History and Origin of Forced Rhubarb
The practice of forcing rhubarb dates back to the early 19th century in the UK. It was discovered that rhubarb grown in dark sheds during winter resulted in a crop that was ready to harvest in early spring, offering a sweet treat in the otherwise sparse season.
Preparing for Planting
Selecting the Right Rhubarb Variety
Not all rhubarb varieties are suitable for forcing. Varieties like ‘Timperley Early’ and ‘Victoria’ are excellent choices for this method. Look for varieties that are known for their sweetness and robust growth.
Soil Preparation and Requirements
Rhubarb thrives in well-drained, fertile soil. Before planting, enrich your soil with plenty of organic matter. Rhubarb prefers a pH between 6.0 and 6.8, so test your soil and adjust accordingly.
Planting and Initial Care
Planting Techniques for Forced Rhubarb
Plant rhubarb crowns in early spring or late autumn. Space the crowns about 75-90 cm apart and plant them so that the top of the crown is just at the soil surface. Water well after planting.
Initial Care and Maintenance
In the first year, focus on establishing your rhubarb plants. Avoid harvesting any stalks to allow the plant to grow strong and healthy. In the second year, you can start the forcing process.
Advanced Growing Techniques
The next part of this article will delve into the specific techniques of forcing rhubarb, including the right timing and conditions, as well as the maintenance and care required for these special plants.
FAQs
We will also answer some frequently asked questions about forced rhubarb, providing you with expert advice and tips to ensure your success in growing this unique crop.
External Resources
For more detailed information on growing rhubarb, check out the Royal Horticultural Society’s guide. Their comprehensive advice covers everything from choosing the right variety to tackling common problems.
Advanced Growing Techniques for Forced Rhubarb
Timing and Conditions for Forcing
Forcing rhubarb typically begins in January. The process involves covering the plant with a dark, airtight container, like a forcing jar or a bucket, to exclude light. This encourages the plant to produce stalks earlier than it would naturally.
Table: Forcing Schedule
| Month | Action |
| January | Begin forcing by covering plants |
| February | Check for growth; maintain darkness |
| March | Harvest tender, pale stalks |
Maintenance During Forcing
Light and Temperature Control
Keep the rhubarb in complete darkness and at a temperature of around 10-13°C (50-55°F) for optimal growth.
Watering and Feeding
Water sparingly during the forcing period. Overwatering can lead to rot. No additional feeding is necessary during this stage.
Post-Harvest Care
After harvesting your forced rhubarb, remove the covering and allow the plant to grow normally. This helps the plant recover and ensures its health for the following season.
FAQs About Forced Rhubarb
Forced rhubarb is typically ready to harvest in about 4-8 weeks after covering.
It’s best to rotate and not force the same plant in consecutive years. This gives the plant time to recover and maintain its health.
Yes, forced rhubarb tends to be sweeter and more tender than its sun-grown counterpart.
Freshly harvested forced rhubarb can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. It can also be frozen for longer storage.
