Rhubarb FAQ: Answers to All Your Burning Questions

Rhubarb is a hardy, easy, and delicious garden perennial—but it’s also a crop with plenty of quirks! Whether you’re a seasoned grower or new to the patch, here are the answers to your most common—and curious—rhubarb questions.

1. Are rhubarb leaves poisonous?

Yes. Rhubarb leaves contain oxalic acid and are toxic to people and pets if eaten. Always eat only the stalks and discard leaves (composting is safe).

2. When should I harvest rhubarb?

• Year 1: Do not harvest—let plants establish.
• Year 2: Harvest lightly.
• Year 3+: Regular harvest from spring (as stalks reach 30cm/12″) to mid/late July.

3. How do I pick rhubarb correctly?

Grasp stalks near the base and give a sharp pull and twist. Remove leaves immediately. Don’t cut—pulling prevents rotting “stubs.”

4. My rhubarb is flowering (bolting)! What do I do?

Cut off any flower stalks at the base as soon as they appear. Flowering diverts energy from edible stalks and can indicate a stressed or crowded crown.

5. How often should I divide rhubarb?

Every 5–7 years, or when stalks get thin and crowns seem overcrowded. Best done in autumn or early spring.

6. Can I grow rhubarb in pots or containers?

Yes! Use a large (40–50cm/16–20″) deep pot, rich loam-based compost, and water regularly.

7. Why is my rhubarb tough or stringy?

Usually old crowns (in need of dividing), drought, late picking, or overcrowding. See tips for dividing and watering above!

8. How long does a rhubarb plant last?

With division and care, a patch can vigorously produce for 10–25 years (and some last longer!).

9. Does frost hurt rhubarb?

Young shoots and emerging buds can be damaged by late spring frosts. Cover crowns with fleece or mulch if frost is forecast.

10. Can I freeze or dehydrate rhubarb?

Absolutely! Rhubarb freezes well (prep and bag in chunks). See our drying section for making “rhubarb candy” and snacks.

11. Is rhubarb really a vegetable or fruit?

Technically a vegetable—but in most kitchens (and U.S. law), it’s treated as a fruit for desserts and preserves.

12. Can I eat raw rhubarb?

Yes, but it’s very tart. Best enjoyed as a snack for enthusiasts or children in the patch—most people prefer it cooked and sweetened.

13. Will rhubarb crowd other plants?

It does get big—plan on at least 90cm (3ft) between crowns and keep weeds and encroachers away for best results.

14. What’s the best way to mulch rhubarb?

Use compost, straw, or leaf mold in spring—keep mulch away from crowns to prevent rot.

15. Why are my rhubarb stalks green, not red?

Some varieties are naturally green-stemmed but just as delicious! Some can turn redder in sun and cool weather—variety is the main factor.

16. What’s the best fertilizer for rhubarb?

Well-rotted compost or manure in early spring, plus a balanced slow-release fertilizer if soil is poor. Avoid high-nitrogen lawn feeds!

17. What pests trouble rhubarb?

Slugs, snails, aphids occasionally, and sometimes vine weevil in pots. Most are not serious threats in a healthy patch.

18. Is rhubarb deer-, rabbit-, or chicken-proof?

Generally, yes—animals dislike the leaves and sharp acidity, though rabbits or goats might nibble new shoots in a pinch.

19. Can I “force” rhubarb for earlier harvests?

Yes! Cover crowns in January/February with a dark pot or bucket. You’ll get sweet, pink stalks weeks before outdoor patches wake up.

20. Why is rhubarb sometimes called “pie plant”?

Because it’s been used for pies in the U.S. and U.K. since the 1800s—a spring rite of passage for generations of home cooks!

Wrapping Up

Rhubarb may be quirky, but with these answers, you’ll have the most productive, reliable, and delicious patch on the block. Got more questions? Just ask—rhubarb fans are always happy to share tips!