By Scout Nelson
Rhubarb, a mainstay in many North Dakota gardens, is renowned for its early spring emergence and potential to dominate garden spaces. Recently, the technique of "forcing rhubarb" has gained attention, promising an earlier and more flavorful harvest.
Forcing rhubarb involves covering the plant early in the season as the leaves start to emerge. This is done using a rhubarb force—a bell-shaped terracotta pot—or simply a bucket, which creates total darkness around the plant. Gardeners leave the plant covered for about seven to eight weeks, encouraging the stems to elongate as they search for light.
This method was accidentally discovered in the United Kingdom in 1817, leading to its widespread adoption. By keeping the rhubarb in the dark, the stems shoot up rapidly, utilizing stored food from the plant’s rhizome root system. This results in a harvest that is not only earlier but also boasts brighter color and longer stalks.
For optimal results, gardeners should use rhubarb plants that are at least three years old, as older plants have more stored energy to support this forced growth. It’s advised not to force the same rhubarb plant in consecutive years to prevent exhaustion and ensure the plant’s longevity.
Aside from its culinary uses, rhubarb can also be propagated by dividing the plant in early spring or late fall. This allows gardeners to share this robust perennial with friends or expand their own gardens.
When harvesting, a firm twist and pull should cleanly snap the stalk from the plant, ready to be used in dishes like the viral rhubarb pie made famous by Barbara in a popular tongue-twisting song.
As rhubarb continues to gain popularity for its versatility and early presence in gardens, techniques like forcing are enhancing how gardeners enjoy and cultivate this beloved plant.
Photo Credit -pexels-greta-hoffman
Categories: North Dakota, General, Harvesting