Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum) is a hardy perennial vegetable known for its tart, flavorful stalks often used in pies, jams, and desserts. Though commonly treated as a fruit in the kitchen, rhubarb is a true vegetable that offers both ornamental and culinary appeal. With its bold red or green stalks and large crinkled leaves, it’s as attractive as it is practical in a garden.
Growing rhubarb is surprisingly simple once it’s established — it’s long-lived, low-maintenance, and can produce bountiful harvests for years. Here’s everything you need to know about how to grow and care for rhubarb successfully.
Choosing the Right Variety
Rhubarb comes in several varieties, differing mainly in stalk color, flavor, and cold tolerance. Some popular types include:
- ‘Victoria’ – A traditional greenish-red variety with excellent flavor and high yield.
- ‘Canada Red’ – Bright red stalks and mild, sweet taste.
- ‘Cherry Red’ – Deep red stalks ideal for desserts.
- ‘Crimson Red’ – Uniformly red stems that are tender and flavorful.
Choose a variety that matches your climate and soil, but in general, most rhubarb plants thrive in cool regions and tolerate frost well.
Site and Soil Preparation
Rhubarb thrives best in full sun but will tolerate partial shade. Choose a location with at least 6 hours of sunlight daily for strong, thick stalks.
It prefers rich, well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter. Ideal soil pH is slightly acidic, between 6.0 and 6.8. Before planting:
- Loosen the soil to about 12–18 inches deep.
- Mix in compost or well-rotted manure to boost fertility.
- Ensure good drainage — rhubarb roots can rot in soggy soil.
Since rhubarb can stay in the same spot for 8–10 years, it’s best to choose a permanent location away from competing tree roots or overcrowded beds.
Planting Rhubarb
Rhubarb can be grown from crowns (root divisions) or seeds, though crowns are preferred for faster results.
To plant rhubarb crowns:
- Plant in early spring, as soon as the soil is workable.
- Dig holes about 3 feet apart and 2 inches below the soil surface.
- Place the crown with buds facing upward and cover lightly with soil.
- Water thoroughly after planting.
If starting from seed, sow indoors in late winter, transplanting seedlings outdoors after the last frost. However, seed-grown rhubarb may take several years to mature.
Watering and Mulching
Rhubarb needs consistent moisture, especially during hot weather, but overwatering should be avoided. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on rainfall.
Mulch around the plants with compost, straw, or shredded leaves to:
- Retain soil moisture
- Suppress weeds
- Keep roots cool during summer
Good mulching also enriches the soil as it decomposes, improving long-term fertility.
Fertilizing Rhubarb
Rhubarb is a heavy feeder, especially during its growing years. Each spring, before new growth appears, apply a generous layer of well-rotted compost or manure around the base of the plant.
If needed, supplement with a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) once in spring and again after harvest. Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen, as it promotes large leaves at the expense of edible stalks.
Harvesting Rhubarb
Patience is key with rhubarb. Do not harvest during the first year after planting; this allows the plant to establish a strong root system. By the second or third year, you can begin harvesting.
To harvest properly:
- Pull stalks gently from the base rather than cutting them.
- Harvest only the thick, healthy stalks, leaving at least one-third of the plant intact.
- The ideal harvest period is late spring through early summer.
Remember: Never eat rhubarb leaves, as they contain oxalic acid and are toxic.
Dividing and Rejuvenating Rhubarb
Every 4–5 years, rhubarb plants benefit from division. This helps maintain vigor and increases yields.
To divide:
- In early spring or late fall, dig up the entire clump.
- Cut the crown into sections with at least one strong bud and healthy roots per piece.
- Replant immediately, spacing each new crown about 3 feet apart.
Regular division rejuvenates old plants and prevents overcrowding.
Pests and Diseases
Rhubarb is generally hardy and pest-resistant, but a few issues can arise:
- Crown rot: Caused by poor drainage or overwatering.
- Slugs and snails: May feed on young shoots; hand-pick or use barriers.
- Aphids: Can appear on flower stalks; wash off with water or use insecticidal soap.
To prevent disease, remove and discard any rotting stalks or leaves promptly and ensure good air circulation.
Winter Care
Rhubarb is cold-hardy, but it benefits from protection in extremely cold regions.
- After the first frost, cut back dead leaves to ground level.
- Apply a thick layer of mulch or straw over the crown to protect it from freeze damage.
- In spring, remove the mulch to allow new shoots to emerge.
With proper winter care, rhubarb will return stronger and more productive each year.
Final Thoughts
Rhubarb is a garden classic that rewards patience with years of abundant harvests and beautiful foliage. Once established, it requires little attention beyond watering, feeding, and occasional division. Its resilience, long lifespan, and striking red stalks make it a perfect choice for home gardeners seeking both beauty and utility.
Whether baked into pies, turned into jam, or used in refreshing drinks, rhubarb adds a unique tangy flavor that makes it worth growing season after season. With the right care, this perennial favorite can thrive in your garden for decades.