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Post by eastex on Mar 20, 2016 10:38:12 GMT -5
So, I've read around a bit and I'm wondering if the heat of summer kills rhubarb or it just goes dormant. I want to try it, but I live In a zone 7/8 mix and I'm wondering if there are any tricks to encourage the rhubarb to thrive perennially and not just as an annual.
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Post by rowan on Mar 20, 2016 14:18:59 GMT -5
In every warm part of the world rhubarb is grown as a perennial. It is harvested all year round here even growing strongly in 40C days.
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Post by eastex on Mar 20, 2016 22:08:15 GMT -5
Well, I am gonna give it a shot. I'll be honest: it will make me sad if they die from my 100 degree days. But I'd rather try than always wonder if I could be successful.
Steev also was telling me that he grows some rhubarb in 119 F at his place and that they need water. I can totally do that! I am feeling more optimistic with two positive nods from my friends here. I will give an update in the summer on my success.
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Post by rowan on Mar 20, 2016 23:59:22 GMT -5
I don't think you will have any trouble, rhubarb is very good in the heat if you keep the water up. Good luck  |
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Post by templeton on Mar 21, 2016 0:17:39 GMT -5
Go for it. I've got a patch that survived our 10 year Millennial drought. The edges of the leaves burn a bit if they get water stressed and hot, and they wilt, but a bit of water and they get away nicely in autumn. I suspect that not all varieties are equal.
T
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Post by darrenabbey on Mar 21, 2016 5:34:24 GMT -5
Around here (MN), you can get Rhubarb producing into the heat of summer by putting shade-cloths over the plants. This might hint at a strategy for growing the plant further south than usual.
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Post by templeton on Mar 21, 2016 5:40:50 GMT -5
Mine persists through summer, even with only occasional watering. Give it a drink, and it thrives. I get a little bit of leaf scorch on the hottest 40C+ days.
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Post by steev on Mar 21, 2016 19:01:06 GMT -5
My Victoria has been perking along ~8 years; the Glaskin's Perpetual that I thought had croaked, has re-appeared after a year's sabbatical; I've not gone looking for the Early Champaign, but I expect it's still there, among the weeds.
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Post by eastex on Mar 21, 2016 23:24:15 GMT -5
I've got Crimson Red variety crowns. I'm very encouraged, guys. Thank you all so much! That's why I live this place. I mean, when I was researching the web, everything was sooooooo dismal and discouraging, and I wonder if the folks posting even really grown their own plants, you know? If these guys aren't tough enough, I will give Victoria a shot.
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