Growing Rhubarb in the UK: A Complete Guide

Introduction

Rhubarb is a classic British vegetable often treated as a fruit due to its tangy flavor, perfect for pies, crumbles, jams, and chutneys. Known for its striking red stalks and large, decorative leaves, rhubarb is a perennial plant that thrives in the UK’s cool climate. Once planted, rhubarb can produce a bountiful harvest year after year with minimal effort.

This guide will provide all the information you need to successfully grow rhubarb in the UK, from planting and care to harvesting and troubleshooting common issues.

Why Grow Rhubarb in the UK?

1. Hardy Plant: Rhubarb is well-suited to the UK’s climate and can withstand frosty winters.
2. Low Maintenance: Once established, rhubarb requires minimal care.
3. Productive Crop: A single rhubarb crown can produce harvests for 10 years or more.
4. Versatile Use: Rhubarb is ideal for sweet and savory recipes.
5. Attractive Plant: Its large, vibrant leaves and red stalks make it a decorative addition to any garden.

Choosing the Right Rhubarb Varieties

1. Timperley Early

• Description: A popular variety that produces early, tender stalks.
• Best For: Early-season harvesting.

2. Victoria

• Description: A traditional variety with thick, greenish-red stalks.
• Best For: Heavy cropping and a long harvest season.

3. Raspberry Red

• Description: Known for its sweet flavor and deep red stalks.
• Best For: Desserts and jams.

4. Glaskins Perpetual

• Description: Produces sweet stalks even late in the season.
• Best For: Continuous harvesting throughout the growing season.

When to Plant Rhubarb in the UK

1. Bare-Root Crowns

• Plant bare-root rhubarb crowns in late autumn or early spring when the soil is workable.

2. Potted Rhubarb Plants

• These can be planted at any time of the year, but spring and autumn are ideal.

3. From Seed

• Sow seeds indoors in early spring or directly outdoors after the last frost.

Preparing the Soil for Rhubarb

1. Soil Type

• Rhubarb thrives in rich, well-draining soil. Avoid heavy, waterlogged soils.

2. Soil Preparation

• Test soil pH and aim for a neutral to slightly acidic range (6.0-7.0).
• Incorporate plenty of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, into the planting area.

3. Site Selection

• Choose a sunny or partially shaded spot with plenty of space, as rhubarb plants can spread out.
• Avoid planting in areas prone to waterlogging.

How to Plant Rhubarb

1. Planting Bare-Root Crowns

1. Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the crown.
2. Place the crown in the hole with the buds just above the soil surface.
3. Space crowns 3-4 feet apart to allow for growth.
4. Backfill with soil, pressing gently to eliminate air pockets.
5. Water thoroughly to help establish roots.

2. Planting Potted Rhubarb

• Remove the plant from its pot and gently loosen the roots.
• Follow the same steps as planting bare-root crowns.

3. Planting Rhubarb from Seed

1. Sow seeds 1cm deep in pots filled with seed compost.
2. Keep pots in a bright, frost-free location.
3. Transplant seedlings outdoors when they are 10-15cm tall and after the last frost.

Caring for Rhubarb

1. Watering

• Water regularly during dry spells, especially in the first year.
• Avoid overwatering, as waterlogged soil can cause root rot.

2. Mulching

• Apply a thick layer of mulch, such as straw or compost, around the base of the plant in spring.
• Mulch retains moisture, suppresses weeds, and provides nutrients.

3. Feeding

• Feed rhubarb with a balanced fertilizer in early spring as growth begins.
• Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of stalk production.

4. Removing Flower Stalks

• Cut off any flower stalks as soon as they appear to redirect energy to the stems.

Harvesting Rhubarb

1. When to Harvest:

• Harvest rhubarb stalks from the second year after planting to allow the plant to establish.
• Begin harvesting in mid-spring and stop by late summer.

2. How to Harvest:

1. Hold the stalk near the base and pull gently with a twisting motion.
2. Alternatively, use a sharp knife to cut the stalk at the base.

3. Harvesting Tips:

• Only harvest one-third of the stalks at a time to avoid weakening the plant.
• Never eat the leaves, as they are toxic due to high oxalic acid content.

Overwintering Rhubarb

1. Protecting the Crown

• Apply a thick layer of mulch or straw over the crown in late autumn to protect it from frost.

2. Forcing Rhubarb

• Cover the crown with an upturned bucket or forcing pot in late winter to encourage early, tender stalks.

Common Problems and Solutions

1. Crown Rot

• Cause: Waterlogged soil or poor drainage.
• Solution: Plant rhubarb in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.

2. Slugs and Snails

• Cause: Slugs and snails feed on young shoots.
• Solution: Use slug deterrents, traps, or copper tape around the base of the plant.

3. Weak Growth

• Cause: Nutrient deficiency or overcrowding.
• Solution: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer and divide overcrowded crowns.

FAQs About Growing Rhubarb in the UK

1. When is the best time to plant rhubarb?
Late autumn or early spring is ideal for planting bare-root crowns.

2. How long does it take for rhubarb to grow?
Rhubarb plants usually take two years to establish before producing a good harvest.

3. Can I grow rhubarb in containers?
Yes, rhubarb can be grown in large containers at least 18 inches deep and wide.

4. How do I protect rhubarb from frost?
Apply a thick layer of mulch over the crown in late autumn or cover it with fleece.

5. Can I eat rhubarb leaves?
No, rhubarb leaves are toxic and should never be consumed.

6. How do I force rhubarb?
Cover the crown with a forcing pot or bucket in late winter to encourage early stalk growth.

7. What’s the best fertilizer for rhubarb?
Use a balanced fertilizer in early spring and compost or manure as a mulch.

8. How do I divide rhubarb plants?
Lift the crown in early spring or autumn and split it into sections, ensuring each section has at least one bud.

9. How long do rhubarb plants last?
With proper care, rhubarb plants can last 10 years or more.

10. Can I grow rhubarb from seed?
Yes, but it takes longer to establish than planting crowns or potted plants.

Conclusion

Rhubarb is a hardy and versatile plant that thrives in the UK’s climate, making it a must-have for any garden. With minimal care and the right conditions, you can enjoy abundant harvests of delicious, tangy stalks for years. Whether you’re planting crowns, seeds, or potted plants, this guide will help you grow rhubarb successfully.

Start growing rhubarb today and enjoy the sweet rewards of homegrown goodness in your kitchen!