Rhubarb in Florida: A Tropical Twist on a Temperate Treat
Florida: land of sunshine, beaches, and...rhubarb? Well, maybe not the last one, but hey, that doesn't mean we can't give it a whirl! Rhubarb, that tart and tangy friend to pies and crisps, thrives in cool climates. But fear not, sunshine state farmers, because with a little know-how, you can coax this fickle friend into gracing your garden.
Sunshine Blues: Why Rhubarb Isn't a Sunshine Fanatic
Here's the thing: rhubarb's a drama queen. It needs a cold winter nap to come back strong each year. Florida's perpetually pleasant weather throws a wrench in that plan. Our balmy nights leave the poor thing restless, hindering its growth.
But don't despair! We can outsmart Mother Nature (or at least convince her to play along a little).
So You Want to Be a Florida Rhubarb Rebel?
There are two main ways to cultivate this temperamental treat in the Sunshine State:
- The Annual Adventure: Think of rhubarb as a seasonal fling, not a lifelong commitment. Plant seeds indoors in late summer and transplant them to your garden in fall. Aim for a harvest by February.
- The Crown Caper: For the more daring, try cold stratification. Find crowns (the root part) from a northern supplier in early spring. Simulate winter by sticking them in the freezer for six weeks, then plant them in fall or early winter.
Remember: Whichever method you choose, location is key. Pick a spot with plenty of morning sun and afternoon shade. Rhubarb may be a drama queen, but it's not a sun worshipper.
Keeping Your Rhubarb رعناء (Ra'naa – Arabic for “Happy”)
Even with our sneaky tricks, Florida's heat can still stress your rhubarb. Here's how to keep it happy:
- Mulch it Up: A thick layer of mulch helps retain moisture and keeps the soil cool. Think of it as a personal umbrella for your rhubarb.
- Water Wisely: Aim for consistent moisture, but don't drown the roots. Rhubarb isn't a fan of soggy feet.
- Feed the Beast: Fertilize monthly during the cooler months with a balanced fertilizer to give your rhubarb the nutrients it needs to thrive.
Remember: You can only harvest the stalks (the juicy red or green bits), not the leaves, which are poisonous.
Rhubarb FAQ: Florida Edition
How to harvest rhubarb in Florida?
Only harvest the thick, firm stalks during the cooler months (February-ish).
How long does rhubarb take to grow in Florida?
From seed, expect a harvest in about 6 months. Crowns might take a bit longer, depending on when you plant them.
How do I know when to stop harvesting rhubarb?
The stalks should be firm and snap easily when bent. If they wilt, it's time to give your plant a break.
Can I grow rhubarb from grocery store stalks?
Nope! Grocery store rhubarb isn't meant for planting. Stick to seeds or crowns from a reputable supplier.
Is there a special type of rhubarb for Florida?
While not a specific Florida variety, some gardeners recommend trying 'Victoria' rhubarb, known for its vigor.
So there you have it! With a little ingenuity and TLC, you can enjoy the taste of rhubarb sunshine-style. Now go forth and conquer the world of Florida rhubarb – just remember the sunscreen for your plants!
