Rhubarb, with its vibrant stalks, unique tang and masses of edible stalks each year, is a hardy perennial that promises years of abundant harvests. This low-maintenance crop is perfect for both novice and experienced gardeners alike.
How to Grow Rhubarb
How to Grow Rhubarb – Planting Rhubarb
Choose a location in your garden or plot with well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight, although rhubarb can tolerate partial shade. Before planting, work the soil and enrich it with plenty of well-rotted manure or compost. Dig a hole large enough for the plant’s root system, usually about 2 feet wide and 1 foot deep.
Rhubarb is commonly propagated through division rather than seeds and you can buy rhubarb crowns from most garden centers or online. When planting crowns, space them about 3 feet apart to allow plenty of room for growth. Place the crown with the buds facing up, just below the soil surface and water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.
Watering and Feeding
Although rhubarb has a robust root system it still benefits from regular watering, especially during hot dry spells. Applying a mulch around the plants will help retain moisture and suppress weeds. In early spring, apply a balanced fertilizer or a top dressing of compost or well rotted manure.
Harvesting Rhubarb
Harvest the stalks by pulling the stalks gently from the base and avoid cutting them. Select stalks that are about 12-18 inches long and be careful not to harvest more than one-third of the plant at a time to ensure continued vitality of the plant. The rhubarb leaves are extremely poisonous, and these should be composted.
Varieties
Consider these rhubarb varieties known for their flavor and productivity:
- Victoria: A classic variety with long, thick stalks and a tart flavor. Ideal for pies and preserves.
- Canada Red: Noted for its bright red stalks and sweeter taste. Excellent for fresh eating or cooking.
Maintaining Your Rhubarb Patch
Rhubarb requires minimal care once established. Each spring remove any debris from around the plant and apply a fresh layer of compost or well rotted manure. In late autumn, after the foliage dies back, clean up the area to prevent disease and compost the foliage and any remaining stalks. Every 5-6 years, divide the crowns to rejuvenate the plants and maintain productivity.
Pests and Diseases
Rhubarb is relatively pest-free but can occasionally suffer from crown rot and honey fungus. Crown rot is the most common and is a fungal infection that causes the crowns to turn brown and soft. It’s best to dig up the crowns and start again as there is no cure or remedy.
Forcing Rhubarb
Forcing your rhubarb allows you to enjoy an earlier harvest in the year, and it reduces the need for sugar to balance the usual tartness. To force rhubarb, you exclude light from the plant, preventing photosynthesis. As the plant searches for light, it produces pale, sweet stems.
