Rhubarb Care Guide
Rhubarb is a hardy perennial that rewards careful planting and attention with years of vibrant, delicious stalks. Here's how to care for your rhubarb plant and keep it thriving.
1. Choosing the Right Planting Spot
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Soil: Rhubarb thrives in fertile, well-drained soil. Sandy loam, especially on a slight slope, is ideal. Avoid planting in heavy clay or overly wet areas, as rhubarb roots don't like standing water.
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Sunlight: Rhubarb needs full sun for best growth, though it can tolerate partial shade.
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Space: Rhubarb plants can grow quite large—about 2 feet tall and 4 feet wide—so give them plenty of room to spread out. They also look quite striking in ornamental gardens, thanks to their large, heart-shaped leaves and bright red stalks.
2. Planting Rhubarb
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Timing: The best time to plant rhubarb is in early spring, when the soil is workable but not too wet. You can also plant rhubarb in the fall, provided the ground doesn’t freeze early.
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Spacing: Space plants at least 3 feet apart to give them room to grow.
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Planting Depth: Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the crown and spread the roots. Plant so the crown (the bulbous part where the stems emerge) is just above the soil line.
3. Harvesting Rhubarb
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First Year: In the first year, limit harvesting to just a few stems. This allows the plant to establish strong roots.
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Mature Plants: Once established (usually after one or two years), you can harvest as much rhubarb as you need. To harvest, use a sharp knife to cut the stems at the base or gently twist and pull them, being careful not to disturb the crown.
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Harvesting Tips:
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Only the Stalks: Only the red (or greenish-red) stalks are edible. Do not eat the leaves, as they are toxic.
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Cut the Tops: After harvesting, remove and discard the leafy green tops, as they are not edible.
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Regrowth: After harvesting a few stalks, the plant will continue to produce. Just make sure to leave enough stalks for the plant to continue growing and thriving.
4. Ongoing Care
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Watering: Rhubarb likes consistent moisture, especially during hot weather. Water it regularly, but ensure the soil is well-drained to prevent root rot.
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Fertilizing: Rhubarb is a heavy feeder, so provide it with plenty of nutrients. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring and, if needed, again in midsummer.
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Remove Seed Stalks: If your rhubarb sends up tall, plume-like seed stalks, remove them promptly. This will help conserve the plant's energy and encourage more productive stalk growth.
5. Revitalizing and Rejuvenating
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Summer Care: If you don't harvest for a while, older rhubarb stalks can become dry, woody, and inedible. To rejuvenate your plant, simply cut off all the old top growth, water well, and the plant will regrow with fresh, tender stalks that can be harvested later in the season.
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Fall Care: In the fall, with cooler temperatures and more rainfall, rhubarb can reach its peak of flavor and texture, making it perfect for harvesting into late fall.
6. Dividing Rhubarb Plants
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When to Divide: Rhubarb plants should be divided every 8 to 10 years, or when the crown becomes too large (about the size of a dinner plate). If the stalks in the middle of the plant become small and spindly, it's time to divide.
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How to Divide: The best time to divide rhubarb is in early spring, before new shoots appear. To divide, dig around the crown (about 6-8 inches deep) and carefully separate the plant into chunks, each with at least one growing bud. You can give away or replant the divisions.
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Leaving Some in Place: Always leave about one-third of the crown intact in its original location to ensure the plant can continue to grow.
By choosing the right spot, providing consistent care, and periodically dividing your plants, your rhubarb patch will provide you with delicious, tangy stalks for years to come. Happy gardening!