How To Grow Rhubarb Plants

Dig a hole large enough to spread the roots, cover them with 1-2 inches of soil, and water thoroughly.

How to Grow Rhubarb Plants Successfully

Choosing the Right Location for Rhubarb

Rhubarb thrives in full sun but can tolerate some partial shade, especially in hotter climates. Pick a spot with at least 6 hours of sunlight daily to ensure sturdy, flavorful stalks. Avoid planting near trees or shrubs that might compete for nutrients or water.

Rhubarb is a long-lived perennial, so choose a location where it can grow undisturbed for years. Good air circulation helps prevent diseases, so avoid crowded spots. If you live in a warmer region, afternoon shade can protect the plants from scorching.

Remember, rhubarb leaves are toxic, so keep it away from pets or children who might nibble on them. A well-chosen location sets the foundation for a healthy, productive plant.

Preparing the Soil for Optimal Growth

Rhubarb loves rich, well-draining soil packed with organic matter. Start by loosening the soil to a depth of 12-18 inches to encourage deep root growth. Mix in plenty of compost or aged manure to boost fertility and improve drainage. Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0).

If your soil is heavy clay, consider raised beds to prevent waterlogging, which can rot the roots. Avoid planting in areas where water pools after rain. A layer of mulch around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Regularly check soil moisture—rhubarb needs consistent watering but hates soggy conditions.

Proper soil prep ensures your rhubarb plants thrive year after year.

Deciding Between Seeds, Crowns, or Divisions

For quicker results, start with crowns or divisions instead of seeds. Crowns are mature roots ready to harvest in 1-2 years, while divisions are split from existing plants. Seeds take longer (2-3 years) and may not produce true-to-type plants.

If you’re patient and enjoy experimenting, seeds can be fun, but most gardeners prefer crowns for reliability. Plant crowns in early spring or fall, with the bud just above soil level. Space them 3-4 feet apart to allow spreading.

Divisions are a budget-friendly option if you know someone with established plants. Whichever method you choose, give your rhubarb a strong start, and it’ll reward you with bountiful harvests for years to come.

Planting Rhubarb: Step-by-Step Guide

When Is the Best Time to Plant Rhubarb?

Timing is everything when it comes to establishing a thriving rhubarb patch. For the best results, aim to plant rhubarb in early spring, as soon as the ground is workable. This gives the crowns a chance to settle in before the heat of summer kicks in.

If you miss the spring window, you can also plant in late fall, about 4-6 weeks before the ground freezes. This allows the roots to establish without the stress of active top growth. Avoid planting during the hottest months, as young plants struggle to survive in high temperatures.

Remember, rhubarb is a perennial, so getting the timing right now means you’ll be harvesting for years to come. Just ensure the soil isn’t waterlogged when you start digging.

How to Plant Rhubarb Crowns for Strong Roots

To grow strong rhubarb, you need to start with healthy crowns and give them a rich home. Choose a site with well-draining soil and plenty of sun. Dig a hole that is spacious enough to accommodate the roots without bending them.

Enrich the soil with plenty of organic matter, like well-rotted manure or compost, to fuel the plant’s growth. Place the crown in the hole so the top sits just 1-2 inches below the soil surface. Planting too deep can rot the crown, while planting too shallow exposes it to frost.

Fill the hole back in gently, firming the soil down to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly right after planting to help the soil settle around the roots.

Spacing and Depth Tips for Healthy Plants

Giving your rhubarb enough room to breathe is crucial for preventing disease and ensuring large harvests. Space plants about 3-4 feet apart in rows that are at least 3 feet wide. This generous spacing allows for good air circulation and easy access when you want to harvest.

Regarding depth, always keep that 1-2 inch rule in mind for the bud placement. If you are planting multiple rows, space them 4-5 feet apart so you can walk between them easily.

Once planted, apply a thick layer of mulch around the base, but keep it away from the crown itself to prevent rot. Proper spacing and depth at the planting stage save you a lot of headaches later and promote vigorous, healthy stalks.

Essential Care Tips for Thriving Rhubarb

Watering Requirements for Rhubarb Plants

Rhubarb thrives on consistent moisture, especially during its peak growing season in spring and early summer. To grow strong, juicy stalks, you should aim to provide about 1-2 inches of water per week, either through rainfall or manual irrigation.

It’s best to water deeply rather than frequently, as this encourages roots to grow deeper into the soil, making the plant more resilient. Check the soil moisture by sticking your finger about an inch deep; if it feels dry, it’s time to water.

Be careful not to let the soil dry out completely, as stress can lead to thin, tough stalks, but avoid waterlogging, which can cause root rot. A good soaking at the base of the plant ensures the root system stays hydrated without wetting the leaves, helping to prevent fungal diseases.

During hot, dry spells, pay extra attention to your plants to ensure they continue producing those delicious, tart stalks for your kitchen.

Best Fertilizers and Feeding Schedule

Feeding your rhubarb is essential because these heavy feeders consume a lot of nutrients to produce their large leaves and stalks. In early spring, just as new growth begins to emerge, apply a generous layer of well-rotted manure or a balanced all-purpose fertilizer around the base of the plant.

This initial boost supports vigorous growth right when the plant wakes up from dormancy. A second application of fertilizer or compost can be applied in late fall after the foliage has died back, which helps replenish the soil for the next season.

Avoid using fresh manure directly on the plants, as it can burn the roots, and opt for slow-release options to provide steady nutrition. Keeping the soil rich in organic matter ensures your rhubarb remains productive for years.

Remember, a well-fed plant not only grows better but is also more capable of fighting off pests and diseases, giving you a bountiful harvest.

Mulching to Retain Moisture and Suppress Weeds

Mulching is a simple yet highly effective way to keep your rhubarb patch healthy and low-maintenance throughout the growing season.

Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic material, such as straw, shredded leaves, or compost, around the base of the plants, taking care to leave a small gap around the crown to prevent rot.

This layer acts as a protective barrier, helping the soil retain moisture during dry spells and reducing the frequency of watering. Additionally, mulch effectively suppresses weeds, which compete with rhubarb for vital nutrients and water.

As the organic mulch breaks down over time, it adds valuable nutrients back into the soil, improving its structure and fertility. This is particularly beneficial during winter, as the mulch insulates the roots from harsh temperature fluctuations.

By incorporating mulching into your routine, you create a stable environment that encourages robust growth, making your gardening efforts much easier and more rewarding.

How to Harvest Rhubarb Without Harming the Plant

When and Why to Divide Rhubarb Crowns

Dividing rhubarb crowns is essential for maintaining healthy plants and boosting productivity. The best time to divide is in early spring or late fall when the plant is dormant. Overcrowded rhubarb produces thin, weak stalks, so splitting every 4-5 years ensures vigorous growth.

It also allows you to expand your garden or share with friends. Look for crowns with at least one healthy bud and a strong root system. Avoid dividing during hot summer months, as stress can harm the plant.

Regular division keeps your rhubarb patch thriving and ensures a bountiful harvest for years to come.

Step-by-Step Guide to Dividing Rhubarb

Start by digging around the rhubarb clump, lifting it carefully to avoid damaging roots. Shake off excess soil to expose the crown. Using a sharp spade or knife, cut the crown into sections, each with 2-3 buds and healthy roots. Discard any woody or diseased parts.

If the ground is dry, water the plant a day before dividing to ease the process. Work quickly to prevent roots from drying out. Dividing may seem intimidating, but it’s a straightforward way to revitalize your rhubarb and encourage new growth. Proper tools and timing make all the difference.

Replanting Divisions for a New Crop

Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil for your new rhubarb divisions. Dig holes large enough to accommodate roots without bending them, placing buds 1-2 inches below the soil surface. Space plants 3-4 feet apart to allow for growth. Water thoroughly after planting and mulch to retain moisture.

Avoid harvesting in the first year to let the plant establish itself. With proper care, your new divisions will produce tasty stalks in future seasons. Replanting is a rewarding way to multiply your rhubarb patch and enjoy fresh harvests year after year.

Common Pests and Diseases Affecting Rhubarb

Identifying and Treating Rhubarb Crown Rot

Rhubarb crown rot is a fungal disease that causes plants to wilt, turn yellow, and eventually die. It thrives in poorly drained soil, so ensure your rhubarb is planted in well-draining soil to prevent it. If you notice soft, brownish spots on the crown or stems, act quickly.

Remove and destroy infected plants to stop the spread. Avoid planting new rhubarb in the same spot for at least 3-4 years. To prevent crown rot, improve soil drainage by adding organic matter and avoid overwatering.

Crop rotation is also helpful, as it reduces the buildup of pathogens in the soil. Healthy plants are more resistant, so keep your rhubarb well-fed and stress-free. Regularly inspect your plants, especially after heavy rains, to catch early signs of rot and take action before it spreads.

Managing Pests Like Rhubarb Curculio and Aphids

Rhubarb curculio and aphids are common pests that can weaken your plants. The rhubarb curculio is a beetle that lays eggs in stalks, causing them to wilt and die. Handpick these beetles off your plants and drop them in soapy water.

Aphids cluster on new growth, sucking sap and leaving sticky residue. Blast them off with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap for infestations. Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs, which feast on aphids. Keep the area around your rhubarb weed-free to reduce hiding spots for pests.

If pests persist, consider using row covers to protect young plants. Regularly check the undersides of leaves for eggs or larvae, and remove affected parts promptly. Early detection is key to keeping these pests under control and ensuring your rhubarb thrives.

Preventing Leaf Spot and Fungal Issues

Leaf spot is a fungal issue that appears as small, yellowish spots on leaves, often turning brown or black over time. To prevent it, avoid wetting the leaves when watering, as moisture encourages fungal growth. Water at the base of the plant instead.

Remove and dispose of infected leaves to stop the spread. Improve air circulation around your rhubarb by spacing plants properly and pruning overcrowded foliage. Mulching helps keep soil moisture consistent but keep it away from the crown to prevent rot.

If leaf spot persists, consider applying a copper-based fungicide as a last resort. Rotate crops annually and avoid planting rhubarb in the same spot where other susceptible plants grew. Healthy, well-cared-for plants are less likely to suffer from fungal problems, so maintain good gardening practices to keep your rhubarb thriving.

Propagating and Dividing Rhubarb Plants

When and Why to Divide Rhubarb Crowns

Dividing rhubarb crowns is essential for maintaining healthy plants and boosting productivity. The best time to divide is in early spring or late fall when the plant is dormant. Overcrowded rhubarb produces thin, weak stalks, so splitting every 4-5 years ensures vigorous growth.

It also allows you to expand your garden or share with friends. Look for crowns with at least one healthy bud and a strong root system. Avoid dividing during hot summer months, as stress can harm the plant.

Regular division keeps your rhubarb patch thriving and ensures a bountiful harvest for years to come.

Step-by-Step Guide to Dividing Rhubarb

Start by digging around the rhubarb clump, lifting it carefully to avoid damaging roots. Shake off excess soil to expose the crown. Using a sharp spade or knife, cut the crown into sections, each with 2-3 buds and healthy roots. Discard any woody or diseased parts.

If the ground is dry, water the plant a day before dividing to ease the process. Work quickly to prevent roots from drying out. Dividing may seem intimidating, but it’s a straightforward way to revitalize your rhubarb and encourage new growth. Proper tools and timing make all the difference.

Replanting Divisions for a New Crop

Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil for your new rhubarb divisions. Dig holes large enough to accommodate roots without bending them, placing buds 1-2 inches below the soil surface. Space plants 3-4 feet apart to allow for growth. Water thoroughly after planting and mulch to retain moisture.

Avoid harvesting in the first year to let the plant establish itself. With proper care, your new divisions will produce tasty stalks in future seasons. Replanting is a rewarding way to multiply your rhubarb patch and enjoy fresh harvests year after year.

Winterizing and Maintaining Rhubarb Long-Term

Preparing Rhubarb for Winter Frost

As temperatures drop, it’s time to tuck your rhubarb in for a long winter nap. Once the leaves turn yellow and die back naturally, grab your garden shears and cut all the stalks down to ground level.

Remove all plant debris around the base to prevent pests and diseases from overwintering in the soil. After clearing the foliage, apply a generous layer of organic mulch, such as straw, well-rotted manure, or compost, over the crown. This protective blanket insulates the roots against harsh freezing and thawing cycles.

Mulching heavily also feeds the soil slowly, ensuring your plant wakes up with plenty of energy for spring growth.

Avoid covering the crown too deeply if you are in a very wet climate to prevent rot, but generally, a few inches of insulation works wonders to keep the roots safe and ready for a bountiful harvest next season.

Renovating Old Rhubarb Beds for Better Yield

If your rhubarb patch seems overcrowded or produces thin stalks, it might be time for a renovation. Older plants can lose vigor, so dividing the crowns every 4 to 5 years is essential for maintaining a healthy crop.

Early spring, before new growth starts, is the perfect time to dig up the entire root mass. Use a sharp spade to slice the clump into sections, ensuring each piece has at least one strong bud and a good root system.

Replant these divisions in soil enriched with compost, spacing them about 3 feet apart. This process rejuvenates the plant, giving it room to breathe and access nutrients again.

Don’t be tempted to harvest stalks from these newly divided plants in their first year; let them establish a strong root system instead. Your patience will be rewarded with thick, juicy stalks in the seasons to come.

Tips for Growing Rhubarb in Containers

Growing rhubarb in pots is a fantastic option for small spaces, and it actually helps control the plant’s spread. Choose a large container, at least 20 inches wide and deep, to accommodate the extensive root system. Fill it with a high-quality, moisture-retentive potting mix mixed with plenty of organic matter.

Container-grown rhubarb needs more attention than ground-grown plants because the soil can dry out faster, so water regularly, especially during hot summer months.

In winter, containers are more exposed to freezing temperatures, so move the pot to a sheltered spot like a garage or wrap the container in bubble wrap or burlap. This insulation protects the roots from freezing solid.

Remember that potted plants also rely on you for feeding, so apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to support robust stalk production and keep your harvest coming for years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Growing rhubarb is a rewarding process that requires minimal effort once established. With proper care, rhubarb will provide bountiful stalks for years. Start your rhubarb journey today and enjoy the delicious, versatile harvests in your kitchen—it’s easier than you think and well worth the wait!