Florida gardeners must treat rhubarb as a winter annual, planting in September or October. Knowing the best time to plant rhubarb in Florida is the difference between a tasty harvest and a total failure. This guide gives you the exact timing and steps you need.
Rhubarb loves cool weather. Florida’s heat is its enemy. You have to work with the state’s mild winters to get a crop. Let’s get into the details.
Best Time To Plant Rhubarb In Florida
The best time to plant rhubarb in Florida is during the fall. Specifically, aim for September or October. This timing lets the plants grow during the coolest months.
Planting too early means heat stress. Planting too late means not enough cool weather for growth. Rhubarb needs temperatures below 40°F to break dormancy. Florida only provides this in the northern parts, and only for a short time.
Why Fall Planting Works Best
Rhubarb is a cool-season crop. It grows best when daytime temps are between 50°F and 75°F. Florida’s fall and winter offer these conditions.
- September planting gives roots time to establish before cold weather.
- October planting is ideal for most of Florida, including central and north regions.
- November planting is risky because the growing window gets too short.
If you plant in September or October, you can harvest from December through March. This is the only reliable window for rhubarb in the Sunshine State.
Regional Differences In Florida
Florida is big. The best time shifts slightly depending on where you live.
North Florida (Panhandle, Jacksonville, Gainesville)
North Florida gets real winter cold. Plant in early September. You might get a longer harvest window. The cold helps the plants go dormant and regrow.
In north Florida, you can sometimes get a second harvest if the spring stays cool. But don’t count on it.
Central Florida (Orlando, Tampa, Ocala)
Central Florida has milder winters. Plant in late September or early October. The growing window is shorter. You need to maximize the cool months.
Central Florida gardeners should use shade cloth if temps spike above 80°F in early fall.
South Florida (Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Naples)
South Florida is tough for rhubarb. Winters are warm. You must plant in October, and even then, success is limited. Consider growing rhubarb as an annual from seed, not crowns.
In south Florida, you might only get a few harvests before the heat returns. It’s still worth trying if you love rhubarb.
How To Plant Rhubarb In Florida
Planting rhubarb in Florida is different from northern states. You cannot plant it in spring and leave it for years. Treat it as a winter annual.
Choose The Right Variety
Not all rhubarb varieties work in Florida. You need heat-tolerant types.
- Victoria: A classic variety that handles some heat.
- Valentine: Good for warmer climates, with red stalks.
- Crimson Red: Another heat-tolerant option.
- Glaskin’s Perpetual: Known for being more heat-resistant.
Avoid varieties like Canada Red or Cherry Red. They need long, cold winters.
Start From Crowns Or Seeds
Most gardeners use crowns (dormant roots). But in Florida, seeds might work better because they adapt to local conditions.
Using Crowns:
- Buy crowns in late summer. Order online or from local nurseries.
- Soak the roots in water for 1 hour before planting.
- Plant them 2 inches deep, with buds facing up.
- Space crowns 3 feet apart.
Using Seeds:
- Start seeds indoors in July or August.
- Use seed-starting mix and keep them warm.
- Transplant seedlings outdoors in September or October.
- Seeds take longer to produce stalks, but they adapt better.
Prepare The Soil
Rhubarb needs rich, well-draining soil. Florida’s sandy soil is not ideal. You must amend it.
- Mix in 4 inches of compost or aged manure.
- Add a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) at planting time.
- Ensure the pH is between 6.0 and 6.8. Test your soil.
- If you have clay soil, plant in raised beds.
Raised beds are best for Florida rhubarb. They drain well and warm up faster in spring, but you want them to stay cool in fall. Use shade cloth if needed.
Planting Steps
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
- Place the crown or seedling in the hole.
- Backfill with amended soil.
- Water deeply after planting.
- Mulch with straw or pine bark to keep soil cool.
Water consistently. Rhubarb needs about 1 inch of water per week. Florida’s fall rains might help, but don’t let the soil dry out.
Caring For Rhubarb In Florida
Once planted, rhubarb needs regular care. Florida’s weather can be unpredictable. You have to stay on top of things.
Watering And Fertilizing
Water deeply twice a week if there is no rain. Rhubarb is thirsty but hates wet feet. Check the soil moisture.
Fertilize every 4 weeks with a balanced fertilizer. Use a liquid feed for faster uptake. Stop fertilizing in February to let plants slow down.
In Florida, you might need to water more during dry spells in winter. Don’t let the leaves wilt.
Managing Heat
Heat is the biggest challenge. If temps go above 85°F, the plants will bolt (go to seed) or stop growing.
- Use shade cloth (30% shade) during warm spells.
- Plant on the east side of a building for afternoon shade.
- Mulch heavily to keep roots cool.
- Harvest stalks quickly before they get tough.
If you see flower stalks, cut them off immediately. They steal energy from the roots.
Pest And Disease Control
Florida has many pests. Rhubarb is tough, but not invincible.
- Slugs and snails: Use beer traps or diatomaceous earth.
- Aphids: Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
- Fungal diseases: Avoid overhead watering. Space plants for airflow.
Rhubarb leaves are toxic to humans but not to pests. Keep an eye out for caterpillars and beetles.
Harvesting Rhubarb In Florida
Harvest time is the reward. In Florida, you harvest from December to March. Do not harvest in the first year if you planted crowns. Wait until the second year for a full harvest.
If you planted seeds, wait until the second year as well. Let the plants establish first.
How To Harvest
- Wait until stalks are at least 12 inches long.
- Grasp the stalk near the base.
- Pull and twist gently. The stalk should snap off.
- Do not cut stalks. Cutting can damage the crown.
- Leave at least half the stalks on each plant.
Harvest only the thickest stalks. Thin stalks mean the plant is still young. Stop harvesting by March to let the plant recover.
Storing Rhubarb
Fresh rhubarb lasts about 2 weeks in the fridge. Wrap it in a damp paper towel and put it in a plastic bag.
You can also freeze rhubarb. Wash and chop the stalks, then freeze them on a baking sheet. Transfer to a freezer bag. Frozen rhubarb lasts 6 months.
Rhubarb freezes well for pies and sauces. Don’t thaw it before cooking or it will get mushy.
Common Problems With Florida Rhubarb
Florida gardeners face unique issues. Here are the most common problems and solutions.
Bolting (Going To Seed)
Bolting happens when temps get too hot. The plant sends up a flower stalk. This stops leaf growth.
Solution: Cut flower stalks as soon as you see them. Use shade cloth to keep plants cool. Plant in the shadiest part of your garden.
Thin Stalks
Thin stalks mean the plant is stressed or not getting enough nutrients. It could also be a sign of overcrowding.
Solution: Fertilize regularly. Space plants 3 feet apart. Divide crowns every 3 years if you keep them as perennials.
Yellow Leaves
Yellow leaves can mean overwatering, underwatering, or nutrient deficiency. Check the soil moisture.
Solution: Water consistently. Add compost or a nitrogen-rich fertilizer. Ensure good drainage.
No Growth
If your rhubarb isn’t growing, it might be too hot or too cold. Florida’s winters are mild, but occasional cold snaps can stunt growth.
Solution: Wait for cooler weather. Protect plants from frost with row covers. If temps stay above 80°F, the plant will go dormant.
Growing Rhubarb As A Perennial In Florida
Can you grow rhubarb as a perennial in Florida? In north Florida, yes, with care. In central and south Florida, it’s very hard.
To try for a perennial crop:
- Plant in a spot that gets afternoon shade.
- Mulch heavily in summer to keep roots cool.
- Water during dry spells.
- Cut back foliage in late spring after harvest.
- Let the plant go dormant in summer heat.
Most Florida gardeners treat rhubarb as an annual. It’s easier and more reliable. Plant new crowns each fall for the best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Plant Rhubarb In Spring In Florida?
No. Spring planting is a bad idea. Rhubarb needs cool weather to grow. Florida’s spring gets hot fast. Plant in fall only.
What Is The Best Rhubarb Variety For Florida?
Victoria and Valentine are good choices. Glaskin’s Perpetual also works. Avoid varieties that need long, cold winters.
How Long Does Rhubarb Take To Grow In Florida?
From planting to harvest, it takes about 8 to 10 weeks. You can harvest from December to March if you plant in September or October.
Do I Need To Chill Rhubarb Crowns Before Planting?
In north Florida, you don’t need to chill them. In central and south Florida, you can chill crowns in the fridge for 4 to 6 weeks before planting. This mimics winter cold.
Can Rhubarb Survive Florida Summer?
It’s very hard. Most rhubarb plants die in Florida’s summer heat. If you want to try, keep them in shade and water sparingly. Expect them to go dormant.
Final Tips For Success
Planting rhubarb in Florida is a challenge, but it’s worth it. Follow these tips for the best results.
- Always plant in September or October.
- Use heat-tolerant varieties.
- Amend soil with compost.
- Water consistently.
- Harvest only thick stalks.
- Treat it as an annual for reliability.
Rhubarb pie in January is a treat. With the right timing, you can enjoy it. Stick to the schedule and you’ll have a great harvest.
Remember, the best time to plant rhubarb in Florida is not the same as in other states. Ignore advice from northern gardeners. Your window is short, so make it count.
If you have more questions, ask your local extension office. They know your specific area. Happy planting.