Can You Plant Rhubarb in a Pot?

If you’re interested in growing rhubarb but don’t have a garden or the space for a raised bed, you might be wondering whether it’s possible to cultivate this plant in a container. After all, rhubarb is a vegetable that requires plenty of sun, nutrients, and space to grow, so it’s easy to assume that it needs a large plot of land. However, with the right equipment, knowledge, and care, you can plant rhubarb in a pot and enjoy a steady supply of this tart and tangy ingredient all year round.

Choosing the Pot

The first thing to consider when planting rhubarb in a pot is the container itself. You need a large and sturdy vessel that can accommodate the plant’s extensive root system and provide it with enough support to grow tall and strong. Ideally, your pot should be at least 18 inches deep and 24 inches wide, with drainage holes at the bottom to allow excess water to escape. Terra-cotta, plastic, and wood are all suitable materials for a rhubarb pot, as long as they’re durable and have good drainage.

Preparing the Soil

Rhubarb likes rich, well-draining soil that’s slightly acidic and has a pH level of 6.0-6.8. You can create such soil by mixing equal parts of compost, perlite, and peat moss, along with a handful of bone meal or rock phosphate for added nutrients. Alternatively, you can use a premade potting mix that’s designed for vegetables or acid-loving plants. Fill the pot with the soil to within an inch or two of the rim, and gently pat it down to remove any air pockets.

Planting the Rhubarb

Choose a rhubarb plant that’s healthy and vigorous, with thick, fleshy stems and no signs of disease or pest damage. You can buy a young plant from a nursery or grow it from a seed, but keep in mind that rhubarb seeds can take up to three years to mature. Place the plant in the center of the pot and bury its crown (the area where the stems and leaves emerge) about an inch below the soil surface. Water the plant thoroughly but avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.

Caring for the Rhubarb

Once the rhubarb is planted, it needs regular care and attention to thrive. Here are some tips:

Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often if the soil dries out too quickly.

Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer that’s high in nitrogen.

Protect the plant from extreme heat, cold, and wind by placing it in a sheltered spot or providing shade and cover as needed.

In the fall, cut back the plant’s foliage to about an inch above the soil level to help it conserve energy for the winter.

In the spring, remove any dead or damaged stems and divide the plant every three to four years to prevent overcrowding and maintain its health.

Harvesting the Rhubarb

Rhubarb takes two to three years to mature and produce a sizable yield, but once it does, you can enjoy its fruit for up to 20 years or more. To harvest the plant, wait until its stems are at least 12 inches long and pull them off at the base, twisting them slightly as you do so. Avoid cutting the stems with a knife, as this can injure the plant and make it vulnerable to disease. Choose a few stems at a time and leave at least half of the plant’s foliage intact to allow for photosynthesis and growth.

Conclusion

Planting rhubarb in a pot is a great way to grow this versatile and tasty vegetable in a limited space. By providing your plant with the right container, soil, and care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of rhubarb stems throughout the growing season and beyond. So go ahead and give it a try – you might be surprised at how easy and rewarding it can be!