Rhubarb in Texas: A Love-Hate Relationship
So, you want to grow rhubarb in Texas? Well, buckle up, because this isn't your grandma's rhubarb patch. This is Texas, where we wrestle alligators in our free time and consider 90 degrees a "chilly" day. Rhubarb, on the other hand, is a delicate little thing that prefers a nice, cool climate. It’s like trying to get a penguin to surf in Hawaii.
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| When To Plant Rhubarb In Texas |
Rhubarb: The Texas Way
Now, before you throw in the towel and declare rhubarb a lost cause, let’s talk strategy. Texans are known for their resilience, and that includes our gardening game. So, how do we coax this cold-loving plant to thrive in our hot, humid climate?
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The secret is to treat rhubarb as a winter annual. Yep, you heard that right. We plant it in the fall, let it enjoy our (relatively) mild winters, and then reap the rewards in spring. It’s like sending your kid to college – you invest time and effort, and hopefully, you get some delicious pies out of it.
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Timing is Everything
So, when exactly should you plant your rhubarb? The optimal planting time is mid to late August. This gives your little rhubarb plant enough time to establish itself before the real Texas heat kicks in. Remember, we’re not trying to grow a rhubarb forest here; we're just aiming for a decent harvest.
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Care Tips for the Rhubarb Rebel
- Soil: Rhubarb likes rich, well-drained soil. So, give it some love with plenty of compost or manure.
- Sunlight: While rhubarb prefers full sun, a little afternoon shade can help protect it from the Texas heat.
- Watering: Regular watering is essential, especially during the hot summer months. But don’t drown your poor plant!
- Harvesting: Be patient! Wait until the stalks are at least 12 inches tall before harvesting. And remember, only take about a third of the stalks to allow the plant to recover.
How to... Rhubarb Edition
- How to prevent rhubarb from bolting? Shade your plants in the late spring to prevent them from flowering.
- How to store rhubarb? Wrap the stalks in plastic and store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- How to use rhubarb in cooking? Rhubarb is most commonly used in pies, jams, and crumbles. But don’t be afraid to experiment!
- How to propagate rhubarb? Divide your rhubarb crown in the fall and replant the divisions.
- How to deal with rhubarb pests? Aphids and slugs can be a problem. Use insecticidal soap or handpick the pests.
So, there you have it. Growing rhubarb in Texas is definitely a challenge, but with a little planning and care, you can enjoy this delicious and versatile fruit. Happy gardening!
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