Rhubarb Crowns: A Complete Guide to Planting, Growing, and Caring

Introduction

Rhubarb crowns are the most popular and reliable way to grow rhubarb in your garden. These established root sections contain dormant buds, making them quick to plant and easy to grow. With minimal effort, rhubarb crowns can produce delicious stalks for pies, crumbles, and jams for up to 15 years or more.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about rhubarb crowns—from selecting and planting to caring for and harvesting them.

What Are Rhubarb Crowns?

Rhubarb crowns are the mature root systems of rhubarb plants, often divided from established plants. Each crown contains buds that will sprout into new stalks and leaves during the growing season.

Why Choose Rhubarb Crowns?

Quick Start: Crowns are ready to plant and establish faster than seeds.
Reliable Growth: They produce consistent yields in their second year.
Disease-Resistant: Crowns from reputable suppliers are less prone to diseases.
Long Lifespan: Once planted, rhubarb crowns can produce stalks for up to 10-15 years.

Best Rhubarb Varieties for Crowns

1. Timperley Early

Description: Produces tender pink stalks early in the season.
Best For: Early harvesting.

2. Victoria

Description: A traditional variety with thick, greenish-red stalks.
Best For: Heavy cropping and consistent yields.

3. Champagne

Description: Known for its slender, sweet, and deep red stalks.
Best For: Desserts and jams.

4. Glaskins Perpetual

Description: Produces sweet stalks late into the season.
Best For: Continuous harvesting.

When to Plant Rhubarb Crowns

Autumn Planting

Plant crowns in late autumn after the foliage has died back.
This allows the crown to establish roots over the winter.

Spring Planting

Plant in early spring as soon as the soil is workable.
Ensure the crown is in place before new growth begins.

How to Plant Rhubarb Crowns

1. Choosing the Right Location

Sunlight: Full sun is best, but rhubarb can tolerate partial shade.
Soil: Rich, well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0.
Space: Allow 3-4 feet between crowns to give them room to spread.

2. Soil Preparation

Add organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to the soil before planting.
Ensure the soil drains well to prevent crown rot.

3. Planting Steps

Dig a hole about 12 inches deep and wide.
Mix compost or manure into the base of the hole.
Place the crown in the hole with the buds facing upward, just above the soil surface.
Backfill with soil, leaving the buds exposed.
Water thoroughly to help the roots settle.

Caring for Rhubarb Crowns

1. Watering

Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

2. Feeding

Feed rhubarb with a balanced fertilizer in early spring to encourage healthy growth.
Apply a layer of well-rotted manure or compost as mulch to provide nutrients throughout the season.

3. Weeding

Keep the area around the crown weed-free to reduce competition for nutrients and water.

4. Removing Flower Stalks

Cut off flower stalks as soon as they appear to redirect energy into growing edible stalks.

5. Overwintering

In late autumn, cut back dead foliage and apply a thick layer of mulch over the crown to protect it from frost.

When to Harvest Rhubarb from Crowns

1. Year One: No Harvesting

Allow the crown to establish and focus on root development during its first year.

2. Year Two: Light Harvesting

Harvest sparingly, taking only a few stalks to avoid stressing the plant.

3. Year Three and Beyond: Full Harvesting

Harvest stalks regularly from mid-spring to early summer.
Stop harvesting by mid-July to allow the plant to replenish its energy for the next season.

How to Harvest:

Hold the stalk near the base and twist gently to pull it away.
Alternatively, use a sharp knife to cut the stalk at the base.

Common Problems with Rhubarb Crowns

1. Crown Rot

Cause: Waterlogged soil or planting too deep.
Solution: Improve drainage and plant crowns with buds just above the soil surface.

2. Weak Growth

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

3. Flowering (Bolting)

Cause: Stress from drought, overcrowding, or old age.
Solution: Remove flower stalks and ensure proper care.

4. Pests

Problem: Slugs and snails feeding on young shoots.
Solution: Use organic slug deterrents and keep the area weed-free.

Dividing Rhubarb Crowns

Why Divide Rhubarb Crowns?

To rejuvenate older plants that have become less productive.
To propagate new plants from an existing rhubarb crown.

When to Divide Crowns

Divide crowns in early spring or late autumn when the plant is dormant.

How to Divide:

Dig up the crown carefully, ensuring you don’t damage the roots.
Use a sharp knife or spade to divide the crown into sections, each with at least one healthy bud.
Replant the divisions immediately in well-prepared soil.

FAQs About Rhubarb Crowns

1. When is the best time to plant rhubarb crowns?

Late autumn or early spring is ideal for planting rhubarb crowns.

2. How deep should I plant rhubarb crowns?

Plant crowns with the buds just above the soil surface to prevent rot.

3. How far apart should rhubarb crowns be planted?

Space crowns 3-4 feet apart to allow for proper growth and airflow.

4. Can I grow rhubarb crowns in pots?

Yes, use a large pot (at least 18 inches deep and wide) with well-draining soil.

5. How often should I water newly planted crowns?

Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

6. When can I harvest rhubarb after planting crowns?

Wait until the second year to start harvesting lightly, and harvest fully in the third year.

7. How do I prevent crown rot?

Ensure proper drainage and avoid planting crowns too deep.

8. Can I divide rhubarb crowns?

Yes, divide crowns every 5-7 years to maintain vigor and productivity.

9. How long do rhubarb crowns last?

With proper care, rhubarb crowns can produce for 10-15 years.

10. What fertilizer should I use for rhubarb crowns?

Use a balanced fertilizer or organic compost in early spring.

Conclusion

Rhubarb crowns are an easy and reliable way to grow this hardy perennial, providing delicious stalks for years with minimal effort. By selecting the right variety, planting in well-prepared soil, and providing proper care, you can enjoy a productive and attractive addition to your garden. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, planting rhubarb crowns is a rewarding endeavor.

Start planting rhubarb crowns today and enjoy the satisfaction of homegrown produce for years to come!