CHAPTER XXXVH 



RHUBARB 



THE popular demand for Rhubarlj, both in and out of season, is steadily 

 increasing, and the hothouse production is keeping pace with this demand. 

 The readiness with which Rhubarb responds to forcing has been recog- 

 nized for many years, and no wonder, since the plant is not pretentious as to its 

 surroundings. It will grow in the dark as well as in the light, under the bench 

 or wherever else convenient, provided it gets the proper amount of moisture and 

 heat. It will also produce growth in various temperatures, ranging from 50 

 to 70°, the only difference being that the stalks will be a bit more spindly if grown 

 very warm. From ^s° to 60° will give the best results, and more may be got 

 out of the crowns with a moderate heat than if they are rushed along too fast. 



Different methods are used in bringing this crop along out of season. In 

 private establishments the roots are generally dug up in the Fall and brought 

 into heat from the latter part of December on, about two or three weeks apart, 

 according to requirements. After the roots have gone through this forcing 

 process, they are useless for further planting. Where Rhubarb is to be forced 

 year after year, new stock will have to be obtained either by division of old stock 

 or by seed. Rhubarb beds are improved, after being planted four or five years 

 in one place, if they are lifted and the crowns divided; but Rhubarb is more gen- 

 erally increased by sowing a little seed each year. 



Where it is grown commercially on a large scale, roughly constructed houses 

 are used. These are built over the beds, in w^hich plants have previously been 

 growing two and one-half feet apart, and have been cut down by frost. Rough 

 boards are used for the sides and ends, lined with paper as a protection, while the 

 roof may be made up of any ordinary sash. This mode of construction is, of 

 course, only advisable when the plant is grown on a large scale. A house of this 

 kind may be twenty-five feet wide or more and of any desired length. Either 

 steam or hot water may be used to keep up the necessary temperature. A steam 

 plant is the cheapest to put in. This method can only be recommended when 

 grown on an extensive scale for market purposes, the advantage of this method 

 being that the roots will not be disturbed, hence a heavier crop may be expected. 



The main factor in successful Rhubarb forcing, whether the plants are dug 

 up or forced where they stand in the ground, is a strong, healthy root. It is use- 

 less to attempt to force any roots that are not robust and healthy. While 

 Rhubarb is hardy and will withstand considerable rough treatment, yet, like 



