92 MARKET GARDENING 



well , supplied with manure. The usual planting distance 

 is four by four feet, and the eyes or crowns should be 

 covered to a depth of six to eight inches. 



Fertilizers. Rotted stable manure is the best source 

 of plant food for rhubarb. This should be supple- 

 mented by an application of 1000 pounds or more of 

 a high grade, complete fertilizer, containing 6% of the 

 nitrogen element. Nitrate of soda should be applied at 

 intervals during the growing season, at the rate of 150 to 

 200 pounds per acre. Some fertilizer should be applied 

 after the pulling season is over, in order that the roots may 

 store up plant food for the next year's crop. Mulching with 

 rotted manure is quite generally practiced and is very 

 beneficial. 



Thorough cultivation should be practiced throughout the 

 growing season, and irrigation is advisable unless the natural 

 supply of moisture is sufficient. Rhubarb requires large 

 quantities of water and no other crop gives quicker response 

 to irrigation. 



Harvesting. The stalks are pulled as soon as they have 

 attained sufficient size, and after the leaves are trimmed 

 off close to the stem, the stalks are tied into bundles of 

 several stalks each. 



Forcing. Rhubarb is forced in the winter time by 

 bringing the large roots into a warm, darkened room or 

 cellar. The roots are set in soil and kept sufficiently moist. 

 The roots should be dug out in the fall and stored in a cool 

 place. Freezing is claimed to be an advantage. When 

 forced in the dark, fine large stalks, surmounted with very 

 small leaves are produced. The roots are worthless after 

 having been forced. 



