When to Split Rhubarb Crowns: A Complete Guide

Introduction

Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum) is a perennial favorite in gardens, prized for its tart stalks used in pies, jams, and desserts. While rhubarb plants are relatively low maintenance, they benefit from being divided or split every few years. Splitting rhubarb crowns not only rejuvenates the plant but also allows you to propagate new plants for your garden. This guide covers everything you need to know about when and how to split rhubarb crowns to keep your plants healthy and productive.

What Is Splitting Rhubarb Crowns?

Splitting rhubarb crowns involves dividing the plant’s root system into smaller sections, each with its own growing points. This process prevents overcrowding, improves growth, and extends the lifespan of your rhubarb patch.

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1. Why Split Rhubarb Crowns?

Splitting rhubarb crowns offers several benefits:

• Rejuvenates Plants: Older rhubarb plants can become less productive over time. Splitting crowns encourages new growth.
• Propagates New Plants: Create additional rhubarb plants to expand your garden or share with friends.
• Prevents Overcrowding: Stops the plant from competing for nutrients and water.
• Improves Disease Resistance: Removes old, weakened parts of the crown that may harbor diseases or pests.

2. When to Split Rhubarb Crowns

Timing is crucial to successfully splitting rhubarb crowns.

Ideal Times for Splitting:

• Autumn: Late autumn, after the plant has gone dormant, is an excellent time to divide crowns.
• Early Spring: Before new growth begins, typically in March or April.

Signs Your Rhubarb Needs Splitting:

• Crowns have become overcrowded and woody.
• Stalks are thinner than usual.
• The plant produces fewer stalks.

3. How to Split Rhubarb Crowns

Follow these steps to divide your rhubarb crowns successfully:

Tools Needed:

• A sharp spade or knife.
• Gardening gloves.
• Compost or well-rotted manure.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Prepare the Site:
   • Choose a sunny location with fertile, well-drained soil. Enrich the soil with compost or manure.
2. Dig Up the Crown:
   • Carefully dig around the rhubarb plant to lift the entire crown. Avoid damaging the roots.
3. Divide the Crown:
   • Use a sharp spade or knife to divide the crown into smaller sections. Each section should have at least one or two healthy buds (growing points).
4. Replant the Divisions:
   • Plant the new divisions 3–4 feet apart, with the buds just below the soil surface.
5. Water Thoroughly:
   • Water the newly planted crowns to help them settle in.

4. Caring for Divided Rhubarb Crowns

Watering:

• Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the first few weeks after planting.

Mulching:

• Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Feeding:

• Avoid heavy feeding in the first year; apply a light dressing of balanced fertilizer in subsequent years.

Harvesting:

• Do not harvest stalks in the first year after dividing to allow the plant to establish.

5. Common Problems When Splitting Rhubarb Crowns

1. Poor Growth:

• Cause: Planting too deep or in poorly drained soil.
• Solution: Ensure the buds are just below the soil surface and improve drainage.

2. Crown Rot:

• Cause: Overwatering or waterlogged soil.
• Solution: Plant in well-drained soil and avoid excessive watering.

3. Slow Establishment:

• Cause: Divisions without enough buds or roots.
• Solution: Ensure each section has healthy buds and roots before replanting.

6. How Often Should You Split Rhubarb Crowns?

Rhubarb crowns should typically be divided every 5–8 years, depending on the plant’s vigor and growth. Overcrowded crowns or reduced stalk production may indicate the need for earlier splitting.

7. Best Time of Year for Splitting Rhubarb Crowns

Autumn Splitting:

• Allows the plant to establish roots over winter for a strong start in spring.

Spring Splitting:

• Ideal for areas with harsh winters; ensures crowns aren’t exposed to freezing temperatures.

8. How to Use Divided Rhubarb Crowns

Replanting:

• Expand your rhubarb patch by planting divisions in new garden areas.

Sharing with Friends:

• Give divided crowns to friends or family to spread the joy of growing rhubarb.

Composting Old Sections:

• Discard or compost any woody or unhealthy parts of the crown.

9. Tips for Healthy Rhubarb Plants After Splitting

1. Choose the Right Site:
   • Plant rhubarb in full sun and well-drained soil.
2. Avoid Overharvesting:
   • Allow divided crowns at least one full growing season before harvesting stalks.
3. Regular Maintenance:
   • Keep the area weed-free and apply compost annually to nourish the plants.

10. Companion Plants for Rhubarb

Pair rhubarb with these companion plants to enhance growth and deter pests:

• Onions and Garlic: Repel pests like aphids.
• Brassicas (Cabbage, Kale): Benefit from the shade and soil enrichment provided by rhubarb.
• Chives and Mint: Help deter harmful insects.

Conclusion

Splitting rhubarb crowns is an essential practice for keeping your plants healthy, productive, and long-lasting. By understanding when and how to divide rhubarb, you can enjoy a thriving rhubarb patch for years to come. Whether you’re rejuvenating older plants or propagating new ones, following the steps in this guide ensures a successful outcome.

Top 10 Questions and Answers

1. When is the best time to split rhubarb crowns?
The best time is in late autumn after the plant has gone dormant or early spring before new growth begins.

2. How often should I split rhubarb crowns?
Every 5–8 years, or when plants become overcrowded or less productive.

3. Can I split rhubarb in summer?
It’s not recommended, as splitting during active growth can stress the plant.

4. What tools do I need to split rhubarb crowns?
A sharp spade or knife, gardening gloves, and compost or manure.

5. How do I know if my rhubarb needs splitting?
Signs include overcrowded crowns, thin stalks, or reduced stalk production.

6. How deep should I plant divided rhubarb crowns?
Plant with buds just below the soil surface.

7. Can I harvest rhubarb after splitting?
No, allow newly divided crowns to establish for at least one full growing season before harvesting.

8. Why is my divided rhubarb not growing well?
Possible causes include poor soil, improper planting depth, or insufficient watering.

9. Can I compost old rhubarb crowns?
Yes, compost any unhealthy or woody sections that are no longer viable.

10. What fertilizer should I use for rhubarb?
Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost annually, avoiding high-nitrogen feeds.

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