Rhubarb Triangle

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Rhubarb Sculpture

Rhubarb forcing shed at Carlton

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Carlton-rhubarb

Rhubarb Triangle is a 9-square-mile (23 km^2) area in West Yorkshire, England, notable for its historic and intensive cultivation of rhubarb. This area lies between the towns of Wakefield, Morley, and Rothwell and has become famous for producing early forced rhubarb. Forced rhubarb, which is grown in dark conditions to encourage the plants to grow quickly in search of light, is softer and sweeter than the more common outdoor-grown varieties. The Rhubarb Triangle's unique cultivation practices have been passed down through generations and have played a significant role in the local economy and culture.

History

The tradition of rhubarb growing in the Rhubarb Triangle dates back to the early 20th century. The area's specific conditions, including its cold winters, proved ideal for growing rhubarb. Farmers in the area discovered that forcing rhubarb in darkened sheds would produce a crop that was ready to harvest in late winter or early spring, a period when fresh fruit was traditionally scarce in Britain. This method of cultivation became widespread in the area, and at its peak, the Rhubarb Triangle was home to numerous forcing sheds, making it a significant agricultural hub for rhubarb production.

Cultivation

The cultivation process of forced rhubarb is unique and labor-intensive. Rhubarb plants are initially grown outdoors for two years, allowing energy to be stored in their large roots. In the autumn of the second year, the roots are lifted from the ground and moved into dark, heated sheds, a process known as "forcing." Inside these sheds, in the absence of light, the plants grow rapidly, producing the characteristic pink, tender stalks that are harvested by candlelight to preserve the quality and prevent photosynthesis from turning the stalks green and tough.

Cultural Significance

The Rhubarb Triangle has not only been significant for its agricultural output but also for its cultural impact. The annual Wakefield Festival of Food, Drink and Rhubarb celebrates the area's rhubarb heritage, featuring cooking demonstrations, tours of rhubarb forcing sheds, and a variety of rhubarb-themed foods and drinks. The tradition of rhubarb cultivation in this area has been recognized as an important part of the region's heritage, contributing to its identity and economy.

Preservation and Recognition

In recognition of its unique agricultural practices and historical importance, the rhubarb grown within the Rhubarb Triangle was awarded Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status by the European Commission in 2010. This designation helps to protect the name and tradition of forced rhubarb from the Rhubarb Triangle, ensuring that only rhubarb grown and harvested in this specific area can be sold as "Yorkshire forced rhubarb."

Current Status

Today, the Rhubarb Triangle continues to produce forced rhubarb, although the number of farms involved in its cultivation has decreased from its mid-20th-century peak. Despite this, the remaining growers are committed to preserving the traditional methods of rhubarb production, and the area remains a vital part of Yorkshire's agricultural landscape.