How To Grow Rhubarb: Planting, Care & Harvesting Tips

Hey there, fellow gardeners! If you're looking to add a unique and delicious perennial vegetable to your garden, look no further than rhubarb. This hardy plant is known for its tart stalks, perfect for pies, jams, and crumbles. But growing rhubarb successfully requires some know-how. That's why we've put together this comprehensive guide to help you through every step, from planting to harvesting. Let’s dive in and get those rhubarb crowns growing!

What is Rhubarb?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of growing rhubarb, let's talk about what it actually is. Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum) is a perennial vegetable that is grown for its thick, fleshy stalks. The stalks are typically pink or red, and they have a tart, acidic flavor that is perfect for baking and cooking. However, it's crucial to remember that rhubarb leaves are poisonous and should never be eaten. Always discard the leaves and only consume the stalks.

Rhubarb is a cool-season crop, meaning it thrives in areas with cold winters and mild summers. It's a hardy plant that can live for many years, making it a great addition to any perennial garden. Plus, with the right care, one rhubarb plant can provide you with a steady supply of stalks for years to come.

Nutritional Benefits of Rhubarb

Rhubarb isn’t just delicious; it's also packed with nutrients. These vibrant stalks are a good source of vitamin K, vitamin C, and dietary fiber. Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and bone health, while vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system. The fiber in rhubarb can aid digestion and promote gut health. Additionally, rhubarb contains calcium, which is vital for strong bones and teeth. Incorporating rhubarb into your diet can contribute to overall health and well-being, making it a nutritious and flavorful addition to your meals.

Choosing the Right Rhubarb Variety

Selecting the right variety of rhubarb is the first step in ensuring a successful harvest. There are several rhubarb varieties available, each with its own unique characteristics. Some varieties are known for their deep red color, while others are prized for their sweetness or size. Here are a few popular rhubarb varieties to consider:

• Victoria: This is one of the most popular and widely grown varieties. Victoria rhubarb is known for its high yields, reliability, and good flavor. The stalks are green with red blushing, and it's a great all-purpose variety for pies, jams, and other desserts.
• Crimson Red: If you're looking for vibrant red stalks, Crimson Red is an excellent choice. This variety is not only visually appealing but also has a sweet, mild flavor. It's perfect for making beautiful and delicious rhubarb dishes.
• Canada Red: Canada Red is another variety with deep red stalks and a sweet flavor. It's a cold-hardy variety, making it a great choice for gardeners in colder climates. Canada Red is also known for its vigorous growth and high yields.
• Valentine: Valentine rhubarb is known for its bright red stalks and excellent flavor. It's a popular choice for home gardeners because it's relatively easy to grow and produces abundant harvests. Valentine is also a good option for forcing (more on that later!).

When choosing a variety, consider your local climate and growing conditions. Some varieties are better suited to certain climates than others. Also, think about your culinary preferences. If you prefer a sweeter rhubarb, opt for a variety like Crimson Red or Canada Red. If you want a more tart flavor, Victoria might be a better choice.

Planting Rhubarb: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you've chosen your rhubarb variety, it's time to get planting! Rhubarb is typically planted in early spring or late fall when the plant is dormant. Here's a step-by-step guide to planting rhubarb:

1. Choose the Right Location

Rhubarb needs plenty of sunlight – at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. The location should also have well-draining soil. Rhubarb plants don’t like to sit in waterlogged soil, as this can lead to root rot. Avoid areas where water tends to pool after rain.

2. Prepare the Soil

Rhubarb thrives in rich, fertile soil. Before planting, amend the soil with plenty of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure. This will improve drainage and provide the nutrients that rhubarb needs to grow. A soil pH of 6.0 to 6.8 is ideal for rhubarb, so consider testing your soil and adjusting as needed.

3. Plant Rhubarb Crowns

Rhubarb is typically planted from crowns, which are dormant root sections. You can purchase rhubarb crowns from a local nursery or online. When you receive your crowns, they will look like a cluster of roots with buds (eyes) on top. Dig a hole that is about 12 inches deep and 18 inches wide. Place the crown in the hole with the buds facing upwards, and cover it with about 2 inches of soil. Space rhubarb plants about 3 to 4 feet apart to give them plenty of room to grow. Adequate spacing ensures good air circulation, which can help prevent diseases.

4. Water Thoroughly

After planting, water the rhubarb crown thoroughly. This will help the soil settle around the roots and encourage growth. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during the first few weeks after planting.

5. Mulch the Area

Apply a layer of mulch around the rhubarb plant to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Organic mulches like straw, hay, or wood chips are excellent choices. Mulch also adds nutrients to the soil as it breaks down, further benefiting your rhubarb plants.

Caring for Rhubarb: Essential Tips

Once your rhubarb is planted, it's important to provide the proper care to ensure healthy growth and abundant harvests. Here are some essential tips for caring for rhubarb:

Watering

Rhubarb needs consistent moisture, especially during dry periods. Water deeply whenever the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overhead watering, as this can lead to fungal diseases. Soaker hoses or drip irrigation systems are excellent for delivering water directly to the roots.

Fertilizing

Rhubarb is a heavy feeder, so it benefits from regular fertilization. In early spring, apply a balanced fertilizer or side-dress with compost or well-rotted manure. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can promote leafy growth at the expense of stalk production. A fertilizer with a higher phosphorus and potassium content will support strong root and stalk development.

Weed Control

Keep the area around your rhubarb plants free of weeds. Weeds compete with rhubarb for nutrients and water, so it's important to remove them regularly. Mulching can help suppress weed growth, but hand-pulling or using a hoe may also be necessary.

Pest and Disease Management

Rhubarb is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but there are a few issues to watch out for. Rhubarb curculio is a common pest that can damage the stalks. You can control curculios by handpicking them or using insecticidal soap. Root rot can be a problem in poorly drained soils, so ensure your rhubarb is planted in a well-draining location. Additionally, keep an eye out for fungal diseases like leaf spot and crown rot, and take appropriate action if necessary.

Dividing Rhubarb

Rhubarb plants can become overcrowded over time, which can reduce their productivity. To keep your rhubarb healthy and productive, divide the plants every 3 to 5 years. The best time to divide rhubarb is in early spring or late fall when the plant is dormant. Dig up the entire plant and use a sharp knife or spade to divide the crown into sections, each with several buds or eyes. Replant the divisions in a prepared bed, following the planting instructions mentioned earlier. Dividing rhubarb rejuvenates the plants and ensures they continue to produce high-quality stalks.

Forcing Rhubarb

Forcing rhubarb is a technique that allows you to harvest stalks earlier in the season. It involves depriving the plant of light, which encourages it to produce tender, pink stalks. To force rhubarb, cover the plant with a large, light-excluding container in late winter or early spring. You can use a specialized rhubarb forcer, a large bucket, or an overturned pot. The goal is to create a dark, warm environment that stimulates growth. Harvest the stalks when they reach the top of the container, usually in 4 to 8 weeks. Forcing rhubarb can weaken the plant, so it's best to force only mature plants (at least 3 years old) and to allow the plant to recover for a year or two before forcing it again. Forcing provides an early crop of tender stalks and extends the rhubarb harvesting season.

Harvesting Rhubarb: When and How

Knowing when and how to harvest rhubarb is crucial for getting the best flavor and yield. Rhubarb is typically ready to harvest in the spring, about 2 years after planting. Here's what you need to know about harvesting rhubarb:

When to Harvest

Rhubarb is usually ready to harvest in early spring, typically from April to June. The stalks should be at least 10 to 12 inches long and about 1 inch thick. Avoid harvesting rhubarb in the first year after planting, as this can weaken the plant. In the second year, harvest sparingly, and in subsequent years, you can harvest more heavily. Stop harvesting rhubarb in late spring or early summer to allow the plant to build up energy for the next season.

How to Harvest

To harvest rhubarb, grasp the stalk near the base and gently pull and twist. The stalk should snap off easily from the crown. Avoid cutting the stalks with a knife, as this can leave a stub that may rot. Remove the leaves immediately after harvesting and discard them (remember, they are poisonous!). You can compost the leaves, but make sure they are fully decomposed before using the compost in your garden.

Post-Harvest Care

After harvesting, water and fertilize your rhubarb plants to help them recover and prepare for the next season. Remove any remaining flower stalks, as these can divert energy from stalk production. Continue to monitor for pests and diseases, and take action as needed. With proper care, your rhubarb plants will continue to provide you with delicious stalks for many years to come.

Delicious Ways to Use Rhubarb

Now that you've harvested your rhubarb, it's time to get cooking! Rhubarb has a tart, acidic flavor that pairs well with sweet ingredients. Here are a few delicious ways to use rhubarb:

• Rhubarb Pie: This is a classic way to enjoy rhubarb. The tart rhubarb filling is balanced by a sweet, flaky crust. You can make a traditional rhubarb pie or add other fruits like strawberries or raspberries for a more complex flavor.
• Rhubarb Crumble: Rhubarb crumble is another popular dessert. It consists of a layer of rhubarb topped with a buttery, crumbly topping. It's easy to make and perfect for serving warm with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Rhubarb Jam: Rhubarb jam is a delicious way to preserve your harvest. It has a unique sweet-tart flavor that's perfect for spreading on toast, scones, or biscuits. You can also use rhubarb jam as a filling for cakes and pastries.
• Rhubarb Sauce: Rhubarb sauce is a versatile condiment that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. It's great served over grilled meats, fish, or poultry. You can also use it as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or pancakes.
• Rhubarb Chutney: Rhubarb chutney is a tangy and flavorful condiment that's perfect for pairing with cheese, meats, or vegetables. It's a great way to add a unique twist to your meals.

Tips for Cooking with Rhubarb

When cooking with rhubarb, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, always discard the leaves, as they are poisonous. Second, rhubarb is quite tart, so it usually needs to be sweetened. Sugar, honey, or maple syrup are all good options. Third, rhubarb can become mushy if overcooked, so it's important to cook it just until it's tender but still holds its shape. Finally, rhubarb pairs well with other fruits, spices, and flavors, so don't be afraid to experiment with different recipes and combinations.

Troubleshooting Common Rhubarb Problems

Even with the best care, you may encounter some problems when growing rhubarb. Here are a few common issues and how to troubleshoot them:

• Small, Thin Stalks: If your rhubarb stalks are small and thin, it could be due to a lack of nutrients, water, or sunlight. Make sure your plants are getting at least six hours of sunlight per day and fertilize them regularly. Water deeply during dry periods. If the plant is overcrowded, divide it to give it more room to grow.
• No Stalks: If your rhubarb plant isn't producing stalks, it could be due to several factors. It may be too young (rhubarb typically doesn't produce well until the second or third year after planting). It could also be due to poor growing conditions, such as insufficient sunlight, water, or nutrients. Check your soil pH and make sure it's in the ideal range (6.0 to 6.8). Finally, over-harvesting can weaken the plant and reduce stalk production, so avoid harvesting too heavily.
• Yellowing Leaves: Yellowing leaves can indicate several problems, including nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or disease. Check the soil drainage and make sure your rhubarb isn't sitting in waterlogged soil. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer to address any nutrient deficiencies. If you suspect a disease, take appropriate action to control it.
• Pests and Diseases: While rhubarb is generally resistant to pests and diseases, it can be affected by a few common issues. Rhubarb curculio can damage the stalks, while root rot can be a problem in poorly drained soils. Monitor your plants regularly and take action as needed to control pests and diseases.

By addressing these common issues promptly, you can keep your rhubarb plants healthy and productive.

Conclusion

Growing rhubarb can be a rewarding experience. With the right care and attention, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of tart, delicious stalks for years to come. Remember to choose the right variety, plant in a sunny location with well-draining soil, and provide consistent care. And always remember to discard the leaves and only consume the stalks. Happy gardening, and enjoy your rhubarb harvest, guys! Whether you're making pies, jams, or crumbles, rhubarb is sure to add a unique and flavorful touch to your culinary creations.