Growing rhubarb in Cuenca, Ecuador

Question

We live in Cuenca, Ecuador. The temperatures here range from 45 degrees F to 80 degrees F. We have a rhubarb plant that has been producing for 3 years. Recently, the leaves have turned spotty red and the plant looks like it is trying to go dormant. There are still some leaves growing, but our plant that was producing huge leaves and many stalks has stopped major production. If it is trying to go dormant, what should we do? Does the root need to go into the freezer? If the root has to go in the freezer – how long? Please advise. Kim and Tom

Answer 1

Well, they do tend to require a dormancy below 40F to be able to produce well. If you want to simulate that you can put it in a lightly moist soil in a ziplock bag. Keep this on the top shelf of the refrigerator. This will give it the conditions, for at least a month, to produce again. This article will give you more information on the plant: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/rhubarb/grow-rhubarb.htm