How to Plant Rhubarb in a Pot

Rhubarb is a versatile plant that can be grown both in the ground and in pots. If you don’t have a garden or simply don’t want to plant directly into the soil, growing rhubarb in a pot is a great option. Here’s what you need to know about planting rhubarb in a pot:

Choosing a Pot and Soil

The first thing you need to do is pick out a pot. Choose a pot that is at least 18 inches deep and wide. Rhubarb has long roots, so you want to make sure the pot is big enough for the plant to grow. A plastic or ceramic pot will work well.

Once you have your pot, you need to choose the right soil. Rhubarb prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can create your own soil mix by combining equal parts peat moss, perlite, and compost. If you don’t want to make your own mix, you can find commercial potting soil that will work for rhubarb.

Planting Rhubarb in a Pot

To plant rhubarb in a pot, fill the pot with your soil mix until it is about 2 inches from the top. Then, dig a hole in the soil that is about twice as wide and deep as the root ball of your rhubarb plant. Carefully remove the plant from its container and place it in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.

Backfill the hole with soil and gently tamp it down around the plant. Water the soil well to settle it around the plant. If you are planting more than one rhubarb plant in the same pot, make sure to space them at least 2 feet apart.

Caring for Rhubarb in a Pot

Rhubarb in a pot requires a little bit of extra care to ensure it grows well. Here are some tips for caring for your rhubarb:

Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Rhubarb prefers even moisture, so make sure the soil never dries out completely.

Fertilize the plant every month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the directions on the fertilizer package for best results.

Protect the plant from extreme temperatures. Rhubarb can tolerate some cold, but it is not a fan of hot temperatures. Keep the pot in a spot where it gets morning sun and afternoon shade.

Harvesting Rhubarb from a Pot

You can start harvesting rhubarb from a pot once the plant is established and has at least 6-8 stalks. To harvest, simply grab the stalk at the base and pull it away from the plant. Never cut the stalks with a knife, as this can introduce disease into the plant.

Only harvest a third of the stalks at a time, and never harvest after the end of June. This gives the plant time to recover and produce more stalks for next year.

Conclusion

Planting rhubarb in a pot is a great way to enjoy the benefits of this versatile plant even if you don’t have a garden. By choosing the right pot and soil, planting properly, and caring for your plant, you can harvest delicious rhubarb from your pot for years to come.