The sudden drop in temperature over the past week has been good news for English growers of forced rhubarb.
Two weeks ago we reported how producers feared mild temperatures would delay their crop into next year, when the cheaper outdoor-grown variety would be coming onto the market (November 12, p60).
But trade sources say the chill means the domestic crop is now back on course for harvesting to begin before Christmas. They say enough ‘cold units’ have been accrued for growers to apply gibberelic acid, a growth stimulant, and the first arrivals are expected on December 13.
At present retailers are selling rhubarb from the Netherlands.
Two weeks ago we reported how producers feared mild temperatures would delay their crop into next year, when the cheaper outdoor-grown variety would be coming onto the market (November 12, p60).
But trade sources say the chill means the domestic crop is now back on course for harvesting to begin before Christmas. They say enough ‘cold units’ have been accrued for growers to apply gibberelic acid, a growth stimulant, and the first arrivals are expected on December 13.
At present retailers are selling rhubarb from the Netherlands.
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