Rhubarb is like the superstar of gardens, with its zesty and colorful stalks. People just love having it around! And the best part? This bad boy is a total champ when it comes to making mouthwatering pies, yummy jams, and tangy sauces. It’s a perennial plant, which means once you get it established in your garden, it’ll keep on giving you a bountiful harvest for years to come. Rhubarb can easily be going in containers.
Choosing the Right Rhubarb Variety
Before planting, it’s important to select the right rhubarb variety for your garden. Some popular varieties include:
- Victoria: Known for its large, greenish-red stalks and sweet flavor.
- Canada Red: Offers deep red, sweet stalks and is prized for its color retention when cooked.
- Valentine: Produces thick, tender, and bright red stalks with a slightly sweeter taste.
Consider your climate and personal preferences when choosing a variety, as some may be better suited to certain growing conditions.
Preparing the Planting Site
- Location: Choose a sunny spot in your garden. Rhubarb needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth and productivity.
- Soil: Rhubarb thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged soils, which can cause root rot.
- Space: Ensure enough space for each plant, as rhubarb can spread out over time. Plan for each plant to have about 3 feet of space in all directions to allow for healthy growth and airflow.
Planting Rhubarb
- Timing: Plant rhubarb crowns (dormant roots) in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked. In warmer climates, fall planting is also an option.
- Planting Holes: Dig large holes about 1-2 feet wide and 1 foot deep. This allows plenty of room for the roots to spread.
- Soil Amendments: Mix compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to improve fertility and drainage. Rhubarb is a heavy feeder, so enriching the soil is crucial for robust growth.
- Planting Depth: Place the rhubarb crowns in the holes with the buds (growing points) facing upwards. Cover the crowns with 1-2 inches of soil. Avoid burying them too deeply, as this can hinder growth.
- Watering: Water the newly planted crowns thoroughly to help settle the soil and eliminate air pockets. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Caring for Rhubarb Plants
- Mulching: Apply a thick layer of mulch around the plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Straw, wood chips, or compost work well as mulching materials.
- Watering: Rhubarb requires regular watering, especially during dry spells. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Deep watering once a week is typically sufficient.
- Fertilizing: Feed rhubarb plants with a balanced fertilizer in early spring as growth begins. Additional feeding with compost or well-rotted manure in late fall can also promote healthy growth.
- Dividing: Every 4-5 years, divide rhubarb crowns in early spring or late fall to rejuvenate the plants and prevent overcrowding. Dig up the crowns, cut them into sections with at least one bud each, and replant.
- Pest and Disease Management: Rhubarb is relatively pest-resistant, but keep an eye out for common pests such as slugs and snails. Use organic or chemical controls as needed. Ensure proper spacing and good air circulation to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
Harvesting Rhubarb
- Timing: Do not harvest rhubarb during the first year to allow the plants to establish. In the second year, harvest lightly. From the third year onwards, you can harvest more abundantly.
- Harvest Method: Harvest rhubarb stalks when they are 12-18 inches long. Grasp the stalk near the base and pull it gently but firmly away from the plant. Avoid cutting the stalks, as this can increase the risk of disease.
- Leaves: Rhubarb leaves are toxic due to high levels of oxalic acid. Discard the leaves and only use the stalks for cooking.
Storing and Using Rhubarb
- Fresh Storage: Store fresh rhubarb stalks in the refrigerator, wrapped in plastic or placed in a container, for up to two weeks.
- Preserving: Rhubarb can be frozen, canned, or made into jams and sauces for long-term storage. To freeze, cut the stalks into pieces, spread them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to airtight containers.
Conclusion
Growing rhubarb is a rewarding and relatively low-maintenance process that can provide you with a delicious harvest for many years. By choosing the right variety, preparing your soil properly, and following best practices for planting and care, you can enjoy a bountiful supply of tart, flavorful rhubarb stalks. Whether used in pies, sauces, or preserves, homegrown rhubarb is a delightful addition to any garden. Happy gardening!
