When Should You Plant Rhubarb?

Introduction

Rhubarb is a popular and delicious perennial vegetable that is often used to make pies, jams, and other desserts. It is known for its tart taste and bright red stalks. Planting rhubarb is quite easy, but timing is essential to ensure a successful harvest. In this article, we will discuss the best time to plant rhubarb and the steps involved in doing so.

The Best Time to Plant Rhubarb

The best time to plant rhubarb is in the early spring, as soon as the soil becomes workable. This is typically in March or April, depending on where you live. Planting rhubarb in the fall is also an option, but it is riskier as the plants may not have enough time to establish before the winter months.

Steps to Planting Rhubarb

Step 1: Choose Your Rhubarb

The first step in planting rhubarb is to choose your variety. There are several varieties to choose from, but the most common are Victoria and Valentine. Look for rhubarb crowns that are healthy and have a good amount of roots attached.

Step 2: Choose Your Location

Choose a location in your garden that gets full sun and has well-drained soil. Rhubarb prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of around 6.0 to 6.8. Avoid planting rhubarb in areas where water tends to pool, as they do not like wet feet.

Step 3: Prepare Soil

Before planting, prepare the soil by removing any weeds and rocks. Add any necessary soil amendments such as compost or aged manure to improve soil fertility.

Step 4: Planting

Dig a hole deep and wide enough to accommodate the rhubarb crown. Place the crown in the hole with the bud facing Up, and cover it with soil, making sure that the crown is not buried too deep. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Step 5: Maintenance

After planting, keep the area around the rhubarb crown weed-free and water the plant weekly, especially in dry spells. In the first year, avoid harvesting any rhubarb stalks to allow the plant to establish itself fully.

Conclusion

In conclusion, planting rhubarb is easy, but timing is crucial to getting a successful harvest. Plant your rhubarb in early spring, choose the right location, and follow the above steps to take care of your plant. With patience and care, you'll be enjoying fresh rhubarb for many years to come!