Growing Rhubarb in Florida: A Challenge Worth Trying

Rhubarb is a cool-season vegetable, and growing it in Florida presents unique challenges due to the state’s tropical and subtropical climate. However, with the right techniques and careful management, it is possible to grow rhubarb in Florida, particularly in the northern and central regions. Here’s how you can make rhubarb a part of your Florida garden.

1. Choosing the Right Rhubarb Variety for Florida

Rhubarb prefers cooler temperatures, so selecting heat-tolerant varieties is critical for Florida’s climate. While rhubarb may struggle in the hotter southern parts of the state, northern and central Florida gardeners can still attempt to grow it.

  • Victoria: A classic and relatively heat-tolerant variety that is often used in warmer regions.
  • Glaskin’s Perpetual: Known for its ability to grow well in milder winter climates, making it a good choice for Florida.
  • Canada Red: Another variety that can handle warmer conditions, although it still needs protection from extreme heat.

2. Planting Time

Timing is crucial when growing rhubarb in Florida, as the state’s hot summers can stress the plant. The goal is to grow rhubarb during the coolest part of the year.

  • Late Fall to Winter Planting: In Florida, rhubarb should be planted in late fall or early winter, around November to January. This allows the plant to grow during the coolest months, avoiding the heat of summer.

3. Soil Preparation

Rhubarb prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic pH. Florida’s sandy soils can be a challenge, so proper soil preparation is key.

  • Soil Amendments: Add plenty of organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, to improve the soil’s water retention and fertility. Rhubarb requires rich soil, so amending the ground before planting is critical.
  • pH Levels: Rhubarb grows best in soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Florida soils can vary, so it’s advisable to test the pH and adjust as needed with lime or sulfur.

4. Planting Rhubarb

When planting rhubarb in Florida, give the plant enough space to grow and thrive.

  • Spacing: Plant rhubarb crowns about 2-3 feet apart to ensure good air circulation and enough room for the large leaves and roots to spread.
  • Depth: Plant the crowns just below the surface of the soil, with about 1 inch of soil covering the buds.

5. Watering and Mulching

Due to Florida’s sandy soils and the potential for hot, dry spells, maintaining consistent moisture is crucial.

  • Mulching: Apply a thick layer of mulch around the plants to help retain soil moisture and keep the roots cool during warm spells. Organic mulches, like straw or shredded leaves, work well.
  • Watering: Rhubarb needs consistent moisture, especially during Florida’s dry winters. Water deeply and regularly, but avoid overwatering, as soggy soil can cause the roots to rot.

6. Heat Protection and Shading

The biggest challenge of growing rhubarb in Florida is protecting it from excessive heat, especially in central and southern parts of the state. Rhubarb prefers temperatures below 75°F, so heat management is key.

  • Shade Cloth: Use a shade cloth (30-50%) to protect rhubarb from the strong midday sun in the warmer months, particularly as spring approaches.
  • Morning Sun: Plant rhubarb in an area where it will receive morning sun but be shaded during the hottest part of the day.

7. Fertilizing

Rhubarb is a heavy feeder and requires regular fertilization, especially in Florida’s sandy soils that tend to leach nutrients.

  • Compost: Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure into the soil before planting, and side-dress with compost in early spring.
  • Balanced Fertilizer: Use a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) applied once in early spring to support healthy growth.

8. Harvesting

It’s important to avoid harvesting rhubarb too early, particularly in Florida where the plant needs extra time to establish.

  • First Harvest: In Florida, you may need to wait up to two years before harvesting rhubarb to allow the plant to become established.
  • Stalk Size: Harvest stalks when they are at least 12-18 inches long. In Florida’s warmer climate, the harvesting season will likely be shorter, and it’s best to harvest in late winter or early spring before the heat becomes intense.

Conclusion

Growing rhubarb in Florida is a challenge due to the state’s warm climate, but it’s possible with careful planning and attention to soil, water, and temperature management. By planting during the cooler months, selecting heat-tolerant varieties, and providing shade and moisture, you can enjoy a limited rhubarb harvest even in this subtropical environment.