Rhubarb

Mulched Rhubarb: Weed 'Em and Reap Part 1

Source:

Weed 'Em and Reap Part 1: Tools for Non-Chemical Weed Management in Vegetable Cropping Systems [DVD]. A. Stone. 2006. Oregon State University Dept. of Horticulture. Corvallis, Oregon. Available at: http://www.weedemandreap.org (verified 17 Dec 2008).

Featuring

Rob Heater, Stahlbush Island Farms. Corvallis, OR.

Audio Text

Organic Weed Management Mulched Rhubarb: Weed Em and Reap

Forcing Rhubarb

In 1971, the North Willamette Agricultural Experiment Station obtained several selections from the forcing rhubarb varieties Victoria and German Wine from Washington State University as well as the variety Crimson and several breeding lines from Oregon State University, Corvallis, for a total of 24 lines. All lines were propagated by crown division and five plants of each maintained until 1977. Based on previous observation at WSU and OSU and field observations of vigor and quality at the North Willamette Station, 18 lines were selected in January 1978 for further observation.

In-Field Forcing of Rhubarb

Rhubarb growers would benefit from an inexpensive, reliable method for forcing crowns into early production and increasing yields. Early harvests of high quality spears allow growers to take advantage of the usually higher early season prices. Currently, two methods are commonly used to bring rhubarb into early production. In the first, crowns are dug, removed to a hot house, and forced under etiolated conditions. In the second, rows of crowns are covered in the field with clear plastic mulch which increases air and soil temperatures and results in early spear growth.

In-Field Forcing of Rhubarb with Gibberellic Acid (1984)

Prices paid for rhubarb are usually highest at the beginning of the production season. Growers would benefit from an inexpensive and reliable method for forcing crowns into early production. Hot house forcing has been used but this practice is expensive and the field must be replanted. Clear plastic mulch has been used to force rhubarb in the field but mulch costs may exceed $200/acre and plastic removal and disposal are an additional expense.