How To Plant Rhubarb

If you’re craving homegrown rhubarb for pies and jams, you’re in luck! From choosing the perfect sunny spot to preparing the soil, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in and get your rhubarb patch growing!

How to Plant Rhubarb: Step-by-Step Guide

Choosing the Right Time to Plant Rhubarb

The best time to plant rhubarb is in early spring or fall when the soil is workable but not frozen. Cooler temperatures help roots establish without stress. In spring, plant as soon as the ground can be worked, ideally before new growth starts.

For fall planting, aim for 4-6 weeks before the first frost to give roots time to settle. Avoid planting in summer heat, as it can shock young plants. Rhubarb is a hardy perennial, so once established, it will thrive for years.

Pick a spot with consistent sunlight, though partial shade in hotter climates can prevent scorching. Timing is key—planting at the right season ensures a strong, productive crop for seasons to come.

Preparing the Soil for Optimal Growth

Rhubarb thrives in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a pH of 6.0-6.8. Before planting, loosen the soil to a depth of 12-18 inches and mix in plenty of organic matter like compost or aged manure. This improves drainage and fertility, which are crucial for healthy root development.

Avoid waterlogged areas, as rhubarb roots can rot in soggy soil. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with sand or peat moss to improve structure. Add a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to provide a steady nutrient supply. Proper soil prep is the foundation for vigorous growth and bountiful harvests.

Taking the time to prepare now will save you headaches later and ensure your rhubarb flourishes.

Planting Rhubarb Crowns or Seeds

For the quickest harvest, plant rhubarb crowns (dormant root divisions) rather than seeds, as crowns mature faster. Dig a hole wide enough to spread the roots comfortably.

Position the crown so the bud is just 1-2 inches below the soil surface—too deep, and it may rot; too shallow, and it can dry out. If using seeds, start them indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost, then transplant seedlings outdoors after hardening off.

Crowns are preferred for their reliability and earlier production, typically yielding harvestable stalks in the second year. Gently firm the soil around the roots to eliminate air pockets, then water thoroughly. This ensures good soil-to-root contact for strong establishment.

Proper Spacing and Depth for Rhubarb Plants

Space rhubarb plants 3-4 feet apart to allow room for their large leaves to spread and air to circulate, reducing disease risk. Rows should be 4-5 feet apart if planting multiple. Plant crowns with the top of the bud barely covered by soil, as mentioned earlier.

Avoid overcrowding, as competition for nutrients can weaken plants. Mulching around the base with straw or wood chips helps retain moisture and suppress weeds, but keep mulch away from the crown to prevent rot.

Proper spacing and depth are vital for long-term health, ensuring each plant has enough resources to thrive. With enough room, your rhubarb will grow robustly and produce abundantly for years.

Selecting the Best Rhubarb Variety for Your Garden

Red vs. Green Rhubarb: Which to Choose?

When selecting rhubarb, you’ll notice two main types: red and green. Red varieties are often favored for their stunning color and sweetness, making them perfect for pies and jams.

Green varieties tend to be more prolific and vigorous, often producing larger stalks, though they may require a bit more sugar in recipes. Choose red varieties if aesthetics and natural sweetness are your top priorities, or go green for hardiness and higher yields.

Both types are delicious, so your choice depends on whether you prioritize visual appeal or productivity in your garden. Consider how you plan to use the harvest—baking often benefits from the vibrant red hue, while green stalks work well in savory dishes or cooked down with extra sweetener.

Popular Rhubarb Cultivars for Home Gardens

For home growers, certain cultivars stand out for their reliability and flavor. ‘Victoria’ is a classic green variety known for its heavy yields and tart taste, ideal for canning or freezing.

If you prefer deep red stalks, ‘Crimson Red’ is a top pick, offering sweet, tender stems and excellent disease resistance. ‘Canada Red’ is another favorite, maturing early with bright red stalks that are perfect for fresh eating.

Select cultivars that match your climate and taste preferences to ensure a thriving rhubarb patch. These tried-and-true options are widely available and perform well in most home gardens, giving you a bountiful harvest for years to come.

Disease-Resistant Rhubarb Options

To keep your garden low-maintenance, look for disease-resistant varieties that withstand common issues like crown rot or fungal infections. ‘Valentine’ is a robust choice with red stalks and strong resistance to diseases, making it a hassle-free option for beginners.

‘MacDonald’ is another hardy variety, tolerating colder climates while resisting many pests. Plant disease-resistant types to enjoy a healthier crop with less effort, reducing the need for chemical treatments. These varieties are bred to thrive in varying conditions, ensuring your rhubarb stays productive season after season.

By choosing resilient plants, you’ll spend less time worrying about potential problems and more time enjoying your harvest.

Where to Plant Rhubarb for Maximum Yield

Sunlight Requirements for Healthy Rhubarb

For the best harvest, choose a spot that gets full sun for at least six hours a day. Rhubarb thrives in bright light, which helps produce those thick, juicy stalks you’re after.

If you live in a hotter climate, a little afternoon shade can actually help keep the plant from getting stressed, but don’t go too shady—too little sun leads to thin, weak stems. Think about where the sun hits your yard hardest in the morning and early afternoon.

A sunny garden bed or raised area works wonders. Remember, rhubarb is a long-lived perennial, so pick a spot where it can happily grow for years without competing with trees or large shrubs for light.

Good sunlight is the secret to a bountiful, flavorful crop that keeps coming back season after season.

Soil pH and Drainage Needs

Rhubarb loves soil that drains well, so avoid low-lying areas where water tends to pool after heavy rain. Soggy roots can rot quickly, killing your plant or stunting its growth. Aim for loose, fertile soil rich in organic matter, like compost or aged manure, to give it a strong start.

While rhubarb isn’t too picky, it prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ideally between 6.0 and 7.0. If your soil is heavy clay, mix in some sand or organic material to improve drainage. Raised beds are also a fantastic option if your ground is naturally waterlogged.

Testing your soil before planting is a smart move to ensure the pH is just right. Good drainage and nutrient-rich soil set the foundation for vigorous, healthy plants that yield plenty of stalks.

Companion Plants for Rhubarb

Pairing rhubarb with the right neighbors can boost its health and keep pests away naturally. Great companions include brassicas like broccoli, cabbage, and kale, which benefit from rhubarb’s ability to deter pests like cabbage worms.

You can also plant leafy greens such as spinach or lettuce nearby, as they enjoy the partial shade rhubarb’s large leaves provide. Avoid planting tomatoes, beans, or peppers too close, as they can compete for nutrients or attract harmful insects.

Flowers like marigolds or alliums (onions, garlic) are also excellent choices, adding beauty while repelling unwanted bugs. Thoughtful companion planting creates a balanced garden ecosystem, helping your rhubarb thrive without needing harsh chemicals. Plus, it makes the most of your growing space by filling in gaps around your rhubarb patch.

How to Care for Rhubarb After Planting

Watering Schedule for New and Established Plants

Once you’ve planted your rhubarb, consistent watering is key to helping it settle in. For the first few weeks, give the plant about 1 inch of water weekly, either from rainfall or a hose.

If the weather is hot or dry, check the soil daily—stick your finger about an inch deep; if it feels dry, water gently. Established rhubarb is a bit more forgiving but still thrives with regular moisture, especially during spring and early summer when stalks are growing fast.

Avoid overwatering, though, as soggy soil can rot the roots. A deep soak once a week is better than frequent shallow watering, as it encourages strong roots. Mulching around the base can help retain moisture, but always water the soil, not the leaves, to prevent disease.

With the right care, your rhubarb will reward you with crisp, juicy stalks season after season.

Mulching to Retain Moisture and Suppress Weeds

Mulching is a simple yet effective way to keep your rhubarb happy. Spread a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch, like straw, shredded leaves, or compost, around the base of the plant. This helps retain moisture, keeping the soil cool and damp during hot spells—perfect for rhubarb’s shallow roots.

Mulch also suppresses weeds, which compete for nutrients and water. Just avoid piling mulch directly against the crowns, as this can encourage rot. Replenish the mulch each spring or fall to maintain its benefits. Organic mulches break down over time, adding nutrients to the soil and improving its structure.

This extra boost means less work for you and healthier growth for your rhubarb. Plus, it keeps the garden looking tidy! If you notice weeds poking through, pull them gently by hand to avoid disturbing the rhubarb’s roots.

A well-mulched bed is one of the easiest ways to ensure low-maintenance, thriving plants.

Fertilizing Rhubarb for Robust Stalks

To keep your rhubarb producing thick, flavorful stalks, annual feeding is a must. In early spring, before new growth takes off, apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer or a layer of well-rotted manure around the plant. This gives it a nutrient boost for the season.

Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can promote excessive leafy growth at the expense of stalks. A side dressing of compost in mid-summer can also help replenish nutrients. If your plant looks weak or the stalks are thin, a light application of a balanced fertilizer (like 10-10-10) can work wonders.

Always follow the package instructions to avoid overfeeding, which can harm the roots. For established plants, divide them every 4-5 years to maintain vigor and fertilize each new division after planting.

With regular care, your rhubarb will stay productive for years, yielding bountiful harvests of tart, delicious stalks for pies, jams, and more.

Common Pests and Diseases Affecting Rhubarb

Identifying and Treating Rhubarb Pests

When learning how to plant rhubarb, keep an eye out for common pests like rhubarb curculio beetles, which bore into stalks, causing them to wilt. To manage these, handpick the beetles off plants and remove any infested debris around your garden.

Slugs and snails also love young rhubarb leaves, leaving slimy trails and holes. Set up beer traps or use organic pellets to deter them. Regularly inspect your plants, especially in spring, to catch issues early.

Keeping the area around your rhubarb clean and free of weeds will reduce hiding spots for pests. If you spot aphids, a strong spray of water can knock them off without harming your plant.

Healthy, well-fed rhubarb is more resistant to pests, so ensure you enrich your soil with compost before planting. Consistent monitoring helps your rhubarb thrive and ensures a bountiful harvest for years to come.

Preventing Fungal Diseases like Crown Rot

Crown rot is a fungal disease that can devastate rhubarb, causing plants to wilt and turn yellow before dying. To prevent this, ensure you plant rhubarb in well-draining soil, as waterlogged conditions encourage fungal growth.

Avoid burying the crown too deep when planting; instead, place it just below the soil surface with buds exposed. Space plants adequately to promote air circulation and reduce humidity around the foliage. Water at the base of the plant rather than overhead to keep leaves dry.

If you notice signs of crown rot, such as mushy, discolored tissue, remove and destroy affected plants immediately to prevent spread. Practice crop rotation and avoid planting rhubarb in the same spot where diseased plants grew.

Adding organic matter to the soil improves drainage and fosters beneficial microbes that suppress fungi. A little prevention goes a long way in keeping your rhubarb patch disease-free.

Managing Rhubarb Curly Top Virus

Rhubarb curly top virus causes leaves to curl, pucker, and turn yellow or reddish, stunting plant growth. This virus is spread by leafhoppers, so controlling these insects is key. Use floating row covers to physically block leafhoppers from reaching your plants, especially during peak activity in late spring.

Remove any infected plants promptly to protect nearby healthy ones, as there’s no cure for the virus. Keep your garden free of weeds, which can host leafhoppers and the virus. Plant rhubarb in full sun to promote vigorous growth, which can help plants withstand minor infections.

Avoid planting near beets or other susceptible crops that might harbor the virus. If curly top is a recurring problem, consider planting virus-resistant varieties or relocating your rhubarb patch to a less infested area. Early intervention and good garden hygiene are your best defenses against this persistent problem.

When and How to Harvest Rhubarb Safely

Signs Your Rhubarb is Ready for Harvest

Knowing when to pick rhubarb ensures the best flavor and protects your plant for future seasons. Wait until the stalks are thick and sturdy, about the width of your finger, and at least 10-12 inches long.

The color isn’t always a perfect indicator—some varieties stay green even when ripe—but the stalks should feel firm and snap easily when bent. Avoid harvesting too early in the season; let the plant establish itself for the first year if you just planted it.

By late spring or early summer, the leaves should be fully unfurled and vibrant. Remember, only the stalks are edible—the leaves contain toxic oxalic acid and should never be eaten.

If the stalks become thin or the plant looks weak later in the season, it’s best to stop harvesting and let the plant recover for next year’s growth.

Proper Harvesting Techniques to Avoid Plant Damage

Harvesting rhubarb correctly is simple but requires care to keep the plant healthy. The best method is to pull the stalks gently from the base rather than cutting them with a knife.

Grasp the stalk near the ground and pull downward with a slight twist—it should snap off cleanly, leaving the crown undisturbed. Avoid cutting, as leftover stalk pieces can rot and damage the plant.

Always leave at least a third of the stalks intact to ensure the plant has enough energy to thrive. Harvesting in the morning when the stalks are crisp and full of moisture is ideal. After picking, trim the leaves immediately and discard them safely.

This prevents the plant from wasting energy on the leaves and keeps your harvest area tidy. With these steps, your rhubarb plant will stay productive for years.

How Much Rhubarb Can You Harvest Each Season?

While it’s tempting to take all the rhubarb you can, moderation is key for a healthy, long-lasting plant. In the first year after planting, avoid harvesting entirely to let the roots establish. By the second year, you can take a small harvest, leaving most stalks intact.

From the third year onward, harvest only one-third to one-half of the stalks per season. This ensures the plant retains enough foliage to produce energy for winter survival and spring regrowth. Spread your harvest over a few weeks rather than taking everything at once.

If you notice the stalks getting thinner or the plant struggling, stop harvesting immediately to let it recover. By following these guidelines, you’ll enjoy a bountiful rhubarb crop year after year without compromising the plant’s health.

Dividing and Transplanting Rhubarb for Longevity

When to Divide Rhubarb Crowns

Dividing your rhubarb is essential to keep it productive and healthy. The best time to tackle this job is in early spring, just as new shoots are breaking through the soil, or in late autumn once the plant has gone dormant.

Avoid dividing during the heat of summer, as the stress can shock the plant and reduce your harvest. By splitting the roots every few years, you prevent overcrowding and encourage fresh growth.

This process is simple: dig up the entire crown, use a sharp spade to cut it into sections, ensuring each piece has at least one bud. Replanting these divisions immediately gives them a strong start.

Timing is everything—spring divisions might need a season to establish before harvesting, while fall divisions settle in over winter for a robust spring crop. Regular division keeps your patch vigorous for years.

Step-by-Step Guide to Transplanting Rhubarb

To transplant rhubarb successfully, start by selecting a sunny spot with well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. Dig a hole wide enough to accommodate the roots without bending them.

Place the divided crown so the bud sits about 1-2 inches below the soil surface—too deep can rot the plant, while too shallow exposes it to frost. Fill the hole with soil, firming gently to remove air pockets.

Water thoroughly to settle the roots and apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture. For the first season, resist the urge to harvest; let the plant focus energy on establishing a strong root system. Transplanting is a fresh start for your rhubarb, so give it the best conditions possible.

Proper spacing of 3-4 feet between plants ensures good airflow and prevents disease. With a little care, your transplanted rhubarb will thrive.

Revitalizing Old Rhubarb Plants Through Division

Old rhubarb plants often become woody and produce thin stalks, signaling they need rejuvenation. Division breathes new life into tired plants, encouraging thicker, tastier stems. Begin by digging up the entire root system, shaking off excess soil to inspect its condition.

Use a sharp knife to cut the crown into sections, discarding any dead or diseased parts. Each section should have healthy buds and fleshy roots. Replanting these divisions in nutrient-rich soil stimulates vigorous growth. It’s amazing how a simple split can transform a struggling plant into a productive one again.

Don’t be afraid to be ruthless—older roots can handle the process. After division, water regularly and feed with compost to support recovery. Within a season or two, you’ll notice a dramatic improvement in stalk size and quality.

This low-effort task ensures your rhubarb patch remains a staple in your garden for decades.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Choose a sunny spot with well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. With minimal care, rhubarb will thrive for years, providing delicious stalks for pies and jams.