What is Forcing Rhubarb?
Rhubarb Forcer
If you’re looking to get a jump start on the growing season, consider forcing rhubarb. A rhubarb forcer is a device that helps to encourage the plant to produce more leaves. Forcing is a process of tricking the plant into thinking it’s spring, so it will produce early shoots.
Rhubarb is one of the easiest plants to force, and it’s well worth the effort for the sweet, tart flavor of early-season stalks. If you’re interested in using a rhubarb forcer, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, make sure to choose a size that will fit your plant. Second, be sure to use a material that will block out all light, such as a terracotta forcing jar. Finally, be sure to check on your plant regularly, as the forcer can cause the plant to dehydrate quickly.
To force rhubarb, you’ll need a terracotta forcing pot that’s at least 8 inches deep and 12 inches wide. Fill the rhubarb forcer with a well-draining soil mix, and set the rhubarb root crown so the top is just below the soil surface. Water well, and then cover the pot with a lid of the terracotta rhubarb forcer.
Place the terra cotta pot in a cool, dark place, such as a garage or basement or even your patio. Check on the pot every few days, and make sure the soil stays moist but not soggy. After about 4 weeks, you should start to see new growth.
Terrachi Clay sells Terra cotta Rhubarb Forcer in set of 2. If you are interested in getting them, please feel free to reach out to us.