Rhubarb

Rhubarb grows best in deep, fertile, well-drained soil at pH 6.0-6.8, with room for a large permanent clump. Add compost annually and fertilize in early spring, keeping mulch away from the crown to discourage rot.

Sun

Full sun

Water

Water deeply during establishment; adjust to rainfall and soil

Spacing

36 in

First harvest

2–3 years

Tips

• Plant crowns; allow establishment before harvesting stalks. Leaves are toxic and must not be eaten.
• Set crown buds about 1-2 inches below the surface and space plants 3-4 feet apart.
• Keep the planting-year root zone evenly moist and take no stalks so the crown can build reserves.
• Harvest only lightly in the second year, then pull full-length stalks in spring from established plants while leaving at least half the stalks.
• Remove flower stalks promptly, feed after harvest, and stop picking by early summer so leaves can rebuild reserves.

Plant dormant rhubarb crowns or healthy divisions in early spring, with fall planting also possible in mild climates.

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