Rhubarb: How to Grow a Thriving and Productive Plant

Introduction

Rhubarb is a classic perennial vegetable, cherished for its tart and tangy stalks that make delicious pies, crumbles, jams, and chutneys. It’s also a visually striking plant with large, lush leaves and vibrant red stalks, making it a favorite among gardeners. Rhubarb is hardy, low-maintenance, and a perfect addition to gardens in temperate climates.

This guide will show you step-by-step how to grow rhubarb successfully, from planting and care to harvesting and solving common problems.

Why Grow Rhubarb?

1. Hardy Perennial: Rhubarb thrives in cooler climates and can withstand frost.
2. Long Lifespan: A well-maintained rhubarb plant can produce for 10-20 years.
3. Low Maintenance: Once established, rhubarb requires minimal care.
4. Versatile Crop: Its tart stalks are ideal for sweet and savory dishes.
5. Attractive Plant: With its bold leaves and colorful stalks, rhubarb adds visual interest to any garden.

Best Rhubarb Varieties to Grow

1. Timperley Early

• Description: Produces tender, pink-red stalks early in the season.
• Best For: Early spring harvesting.

2. Victoria

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

3. Glaskins Perpetual

• Description: Produces sweet stalks well into the late season.
• Best For: Continuous harvesting throughout summer.

4. Champagne

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

When to Plant Rhubarb

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 during the growing season, though spring and autumn are ideal.

3. Rhubarb Seeds

• Sow seeds indoors in late winter or early spring, 8-10 weeks before the last frost.

Where to Grow Rhubarb

1. Location

• Rhubarb thrives in a sunny spot but can tolerate partial shade.
• Choose a location with rich, well-drained soil that is not prone to waterlogging.

2. Space Requirements

• Allow 3-4 feet between rhubarb plants to accommodate their large size.

3. Growing in Containers

• Use a large container (at least 18 inches deep and wide) filled with nutrient-rich soil.

How to Plant Rhubarb

1. Planting Bare-Root Crowns

1. Dig a hole large enough to fit the crown with buds just above the soil surface.
2. Enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure.
3. Place the crown in the hole with the buds facing upward.
4. Backfill with soil and water thoroughly.
5. Space crowns 3-4 feet apart for proper growth.

2. Planting Potted Rhubarb Plants

• Follow the same steps as planting bare-root crowns. Ensure the plant’s crown is level with the soil surface.

3. Sowing Rhubarb Seeds

1. Fill pots with seed compost and sow seeds 1cm deep.
2. Keep the soil moist and place the pots in a bright, warm location.
3. Transplant seedlings outdoors once they’re 10-15cm tall and after the last frost.

Caring for Rhubarb

1. Watering

• Water regularly during dry spells, especially in the plant’s first year.
• Avoid overwatering to prevent waterlogged soil.

2. Mulching

• Apply a thick layer of organic mulch, such as straw or compost, around the base of the plant.
• Mulching helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and feed the plant.

3. Feeding

• Feed rhubarb with a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth begins.
• Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can lead to excessive leaf growth.

4. Removing Flower Stalks

• Cut off flower stalks as soon as they appear to ensure the plant focuses energy on growing edible stalks.

Harvesting Rhubarb

1. When to Harvest:

• Avoid harvesting rhubarb in its first year to allow the plant to establish.
• Begin harvesting in the second year from mid-spring to late summer.

2. How to Harvest:

1. Hold the stalk near the base and gently pull with a twisting motion.
2. Alternatively, use a sharp knife to cut the stalk at the base.
3. Never harvest more than one-third of the stalks at a time to prevent stressing the plant.

3. Harvesting Tips:

• Only harvest stalks that are 12-18 inches long.
• Rhubarb leaves are toxic and should never be consumed.

Overwintering Rhubarb

• Cut back dead foliage in late autumn and apply a thick layer of mulch over the crown to protect it from frost.
• For early harvesting, cover the crown with a forcing pot or an upturned bucket in late winter.

Common Problems and Solutions

1. Crown Rot

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

2. Slugs and Snails

• Cause: Feeding on young shoots and leaves.
• Solution: Use slug deterrents, traps, or copper tape around the plant.

3. Weak Growth

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

4. Yellow Leaves

• Cause: Poor drainage, overwatering, or lack of nutrients.
• Solution: Improve soil drainage and adjust watering and feeding practices.

FAQs About Growing Rhubarb

1. How long does it take to grow rhubarb?
Rhubarb takes about two years to establish before producing a significant harvest.

2. Can I grow rhubarb in pots?
Yes, rhubarb grows well in large pots with nutrient-rich, well-draining soil.

3. How do I protect rhubarb from frost?
Apply mulch over the crown in late autumn or cover it with fleece.

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

5. When should I divide rhubarb plants?
Divide rhubarb crowns every 5-7 years in early spring or autumn to maintain vigor.

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

7. Should I remove flower stalks?
Yes, removing flower stalks ensures the plant focuses energy on growing stalks.

8. How often should I water rhubarb?
Water regularly during dry spells but avoid overwatering.

9. Can rhubarb grow in shade?
Rhubarb prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

10. Is rhubarb safe to eat?
The stalks are safe to eat, but the leaves are toxic and should never be consumed.

Conclusion

Rhubarb is a hardy and versatile plant that thrives in gardens with minimal maintenance. Whether you’re planting crowns, seeds, or potted plants, following this guide will ensure your rhubarb plants grow healthy and productive for years to come. With proper care and patience, you’ll enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious, tangy stalks for your favorite recipes.

Start growing rhubarb today and enjoy the satisfaction of homegrown produce!