Rhubarb Revival: How to Grow in Colorado
Hello, and welcome to my guide on reviving rhubarb in Colorado! Rhubarb is a delicious and versatile plant that can be used in many different culinary applications, from pies and tarts to jams and jellies.
However, growing rhubarb in Colorado can be a bit of a challenge due to the state’s unique climate and soil conditions. That’s why I’ve put together this guide to help you successfully grow and harvest rhubarb in Colorado.
In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know about growing rhubarb in Colorado, including the ideal climate and soil conditions, the best varieties of rhubarb to grow, when and how to plant your seeds, tips for maintaining your plants throughout the growing season, and how to properly harvest and store your rhubarb at the end of the season.
Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a beginner, this guide will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to grow delicious and healthy rhubarb right in your own backyard.
So, let’s get started!
My Guide to Reviving Rhubarb in Colorado
Climate and Soil Conditions
Before you start planting your rhubarb seeds, it’s important to understand the unique climate and soil conditions in Colorado. Rhubarb is a cold weather crop that prefers cooler temperatures, so it’s important to choose a planting location that gets some shade during the hottest parts of the day.
In terms of soil, rhubarb prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or compacted, consider adding organic compost or other soil amendments to improve drainage and fertility. It’s also important to make sure your soil has a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0, as this is the ideal range for growing rhubarb.
To prepare your soil for planting, start by removing any rocks or debris from the area where you plan to plant your seeds. Then, work in a layer of organic compost or other soil amendments to improve soil fertility and drainage. Once your soil is prepared, you’re ready to move on to choosing the right variety of rhubarb for your growing conditions.
Choosing the Right Variety
When it comes to choosing the right variety of rhubarb for your growing conditions in Colorado, there are a few factors to consider. First, you’ll want to choose a variety that is well-suited to the cooler temperatures and shorter growing season in Colorado. Some popular varieties for Colorado gardeners include Victoria, Canada Red, and Valentine.
Another factor to consider when choosing a rhubarb variety is its flavor profile. Different varieties can have varying levels of tartness or sweetness, so it’s important to choose one that suits your personal taste preferences. For example, Victoria is known for its tart flavor, while Valentine is slightly sweeter.
You can purchase rhubarb seeds online or at your local nursery or garden center. When purchasing seeds, be sure to choose a reputable supplier and look for seeds that have been specifically bred for cooler climates.
Starting Your Seeds
Once you’ve chosen your rhubarb variety and acquired your seeds, it’s time to start planting! In Colorado, it’s best to start your rhubarb seeds indoors in late winter or early spring, around February or March.
To start your seeds, fill a seed tray or small pots with a seed starting mix and plant your seeds about 1 inch deep. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and place the seed tray or pots in a warm location with plenty of natural light.
After about 2-3 weeks, your seeds should start to sprout. Once they reach a height of about 2 inches, you can transplant them into larger pots or directly into your garden bed. If you’re planting your rhubarb outside, wait until the soil has warmed up and the danger of frost has passed before transplanting.
When transplanting your seedlings, be sure to space them out properly, about 3-4 feet apart. This will give them plenty of room to grow and spread out over the growing season. Water your seedlings regularly, and be sure to mulch around the base of each plant to help retain moisture and prevent weeds from growing.
With these tips for starting your rhubarb seeds, you’ll be well on your way to a bountiful harvest of this delicious and nutritious plant. In the next section, we’ll cover how to properly care for your rhubarb plants throughout the growing season.
Planting and Maintenance
Now that your rhubarb seedlings are growing strong, it’s important to maintain their health and ensure they have the best chance of producing a healthy crop. Here are some tips for planting and maintaining your rhubarb plants in Colorado:
Watering
Rhubarb plants need regular watering, especially during dry spells. Aim to give your plants about 1 inch of water per week, either through rain or manual watering. Be sure to water at the base of the plant rather than from above, as this can lead to rot and disease.
Fertilizing
Rhubarb plants require a steady supply of nutrients to grow and produce healthy stalks. You can fertilize your plants with a balanced fertilizer once or twice per year, either in the early spring or early fall. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates and timing.
Mulching
Mulching around the base of your rhubarb plants can help retain moisture in the soil and prevent weeds from growing. Use organic mulch such as straw, leaves, or grass clippings, and spread it about 2-3 inches deep around the base of each plant.
Pest and Disease Control
Rhubarb plants can be susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including aphids, slugs, and powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, keep your plants well-maintained and remove any dead or diseased foliage as soon as possible.
You can also use organic pest control methods such as insecticidal soap or diatomaceous earth to control common garden pests.
Harvesting and Storage
Once your rhubarb plants reach maturity, it’s time to harvest your crop and enjoy the fruits of your labor! Here are some tips for harvesting and storing your rhubarb:
Timing
Rhubarb stalks are ready to harvest when they are about 12-18 inches long and the leaves start to unfurl. Aim to harvest your rhubarb in late spring or early summer, before the temperatures get too hot.
Technique
To harvest your rhubarb, grab the stalk near the base and pull it firmly upward and outward. Be sure to discard the leaves, as they contain high levels of oxalic acid which can be toxic if ingested in large amounts.
Storage
Once harvested, you can store your rhubarb in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. To freeze your rhubarb for longer storage, blanch the stalks for about 1-2 minutes and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Conclusion
Growing rhubarb in Colorado can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. With the right variety, soil conditions, and maintenance techniques, you can grow healthy and productive plants that will provide you with a delicious harvest year after year.
In this guide, we covered everything you need to know about reviving rhubarb in Colorado, from choosing the right variety and starting your seeds to planting and maintenance, and harvesting and storage. By following these tips and techniques, you’ll be able to grow a beautiful and bountiful crop of rhubarb that will impress even the most discerning gardener.