Rhubarb Growing Season: Everything You Need to Know

Introduction

Rhubarb is a hardy perennial vegetable that thrives in cool climates, making it a perfect addition to UK gardens. Its vibrant red stalks and large leaves not only provide visual appeal but also yield a versatile crop for both sweet and savory recipes. Understanding the rhubarb growing season is essential for successful cultivation, allowing you to enjoy bountiful harvests year after year.

This guide will provide an in-depth look at the rhubarb growing season, covering the planting timeline, care throughout the year, and tips for maximizing growth and productivity.

When is the Rhubarb Growing Season?

1. Active Growth Period

Rhubarb begins its active growth in early spring, typically around March, as temperatures rise and the soil warms up.
The growing season continues through late summer, tapering off in July or August as the plant prepares for dormancy.

2. Dormant Season

Rhubarb enters dormancy in late autumn (October-November) when temperatures drop, and the foliage dies back.
This is a crucial rest period that allows the plant to store energy for the next growing season.

Rhubarb Growing Season Timeline

1. Late Winter (January-February)

Key Tasks: Prepare the soil and plan planting locations.
Apply compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil in preparation for spring growth.
If forcing rhubarb, cover the crowns with a forcing pot or upturned bucket to encourage early growth of tender stalks.

2. Early Spring (March-April)

Key Tasks: Begin planting and fertilizing.
Plant bare-root crowns or potted rhubarb if not already established.
Feed established plants with a balanced fertilizer to promote vigorous growth.
Mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

3. Late Spring (May-June)

Key Tasks: Focus on care and harvesting.
Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil consistently moist.
Start harvesting stalks from plants that are at least two years old.
Remove any flower stalks to redirect energy into growing edible stalks.

4. Summer (July-August)

Key Tasks: Finish harvesting and prepare for dormancy.
Stop harvesting by mid-July to allow the plant to replenish its energy reserves.
Keep the soil moist and remove weeds around the plant.
Continue feeding with compost or a balanced fertilizer.

5. Autumn (September-November)

Key Tasks: Prepare rhubarb for winter dormancy.
Cut back dead or yellowing foliage to prevent disease.
Apply a thick layer of mulch over the crown to protect it from frost.
Divide and replant overcrowded crowns to rejuvenate growth.

6. Winter (December-February)

Key Tasks: Allow the plant to rest.
Keep the crown protected with mulch during frosty weather.
If forcing rhubarb, continue monitoring the growth of early stalks.

Factors That Influence the Rhubarb Growing Season

1. Climate

Rhubarb thrives in cooler climates with well-defined seasons, making the UK ideal for its growth.
Excessively hot or dry conditions can shorten the growing season or reduce productivity.

2. Soil Conditions

Rich, well-draining soil is essential for healthy growth.
Adding organic matter improves fertility and extends the plant’s productive period.

3. Plant Age

Young plants (less than two years old) focus on establishing roots and may not produce a full harvest.
Mature plants (two years or older) yield regular harvests during the growing season.

Extending the Rhubarb Growing Season

1. Forcing Rhubarb

Cover the crown with a forcing pot or upturned bucket in late winter to encourage early growth.
This method produces tender, sweeter stalks that can be harvested as early as February.

2. Protecting from Frost

Apply a thick layer of mulch over the crown in late autumn to shield it from frost damage.
Move potted rhubarb to a sheltered location if extreme frost is expected.

3. Irrigation During Dry Spells

Water rhubarb regularly during dry weather to keep the soil moist and prevent premature dormancy.

Caring for Rhubarb Throughout the Growing Season

1. Watering

Water deeply during dry spells, especially in spring and early summer.
Avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.

2. Feeding

Feed rhubarb with a balanced fertilizer or well-rotted manure in early spring.
Reapply fertilizer in mid-summer to support late-season growth.

3. Weeding

Keep the area around the plant weed-free to reduce competition for nutrients.

4. Pruning

Remove dead or damaged leaves to improve airflow and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

5. Dividing Crowns

Divide overcrowded crowns every 5-7 years to maintain vigor and productivity.

Common Problems During the Growing Season

1. Crown Rot

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

2. Pests

Problem: Slugs and snails feed on young shoots and leaves.
Solution: Use organic slug deterrents or traps to protect the plant.

3. Flowering (Bolting)

Cause: Stress from drought, overcrowding, or poor nutrition.
Solution: Remove flower stalks immediately and ensure the plant is well-fed and watered.

FAQs About Rhubarb Growing Season

1. When does the rhubarb growing season start?

The growing season begins in early spring (March) as temperatures rise.

2. How long is the rhubarb growing season?

The season typically lasts from March to July, with dormancy beginning in late summer.

3. Can I harvest rhubarb in winter?

Yes, if forcing rhubarb, you can harvest tender stalks in late winter or early spring.

4. How do I protect rhubarb during winter?

Apply mulch over the crown to shield it from frost and cold temperatures.

5. Why does rhubarb flower during the growing season?

Flowering (bolting) is often caused by stress, such as drought or poor nutrition.

6. Should I stop harvesting rhubarb after July?

Yes, stop harvesting by mid-July to allow the plant to store energy for the next season.

7. How can I extend the rhubarb growing season?

Forcing rhubarb and providing consistent care can extend the productive period.

8. How do I prepare rhubarb for the growing season?

Enrich the soil with compost or manure in late winter and ensure good drainage.

9. Can rhubarb grow in partial shade?

Yes, rhubarb tolerates partial shade but performs best in full sun.

10. How often should I water rhubarb during the growing season?

Water regularly during dry spells to keep the soil consistently moist.

Conclusion

Understanding the rhubarb growing season is key to successfully cultivating this hardy perennial. From preparing the soil in late winter to harvesting stalks in spring and summer, following the seasonal care guidelines ensures healthy plants and abundant harvests. By protecting your rhubarb during dormancy and addressing issues like flowering and pests, you can enjoy a thriving rhubarb crop year after year.

Start growing rhubarb today and make the most of its productive growing season in your garden!