Rhubarb Gardening Tips: How to Grow and Harvest Your Own Rhubarb

Are you a fan of rhubarb pie or rhubarb crumble? Did you know that you can grow your own rhubarb in your garden? Rhubarb is a hardy perennial that grows well in cooler climates, making it an ideal crop for gardeners in northern regions. In this article, we'll share our top tips for growing and harvesting rhubarb.

The Basics of Growing Rhubarb

Choosing the Right Location and Soil

Rhubarb prefers a cool, moist location with well-drained soil. Plant your rhubarb in an area that receives at least six hours of sun per day. Avoid planting rhubarb in areas that are prone to frost, as it can damage the plant's leaves and stems. If your soil is heavy, amend it with compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage.

ing from Seed or Crowns?

Rhubarb can be grown from seed, but it requires patience and a longer growing season. It's much easier to with crowns, which are small sections of root that have been taken from an established plant. You can purchase rhubarb crowns from nurseries or garden centers.

Planting Rhubarb Crowns

Plant your rhubarb crowns in early spring, as soon as the ground is workable. Dig a hole that is deep enough to cover the crown with two inches of soil. Space the crowns three to four feet apart to allow room for growth. Water the plants well after planting.

Caring for Rhubarb Plants

Rhubarb plants require regular watering, especially during dry periods. Mulch around the plants with straw or leaves to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize your rhubarb plants in early spring with a balanced fertilizer, following the manufacturer's instructions. Remove any flower stalks that appear, as they can divert energy away from the plant's leaves and stems.

Harvesting Rhubarb

When to Harvest Rhubarb

You can begin harvesting rhubarb in its second year of growth. Wait until the stalks are at least 12 inches long before harvesting. Grasp the stalk near the base and pull it gently to one side, twisting it slightly to separate it from the crown. Do not cut the stalk with a knife, as this can damage the plant.

How Much Rhubarb to Harvest

Harvest only a third of the plant's stalks at a time to avoid stressing the plant. If you have a small rhubarb plant, harvest only a few stalks at a time until the plant becomes established. Remember to leave some stalks on the plant to allow it to continue growing.

What to Do with Rhubarb Leaves

Do not eat rhubarb leaves, as they contain high levels of oxalic acid, which can be toxic. Instead, remove the leaves from the stalks and discard them in the compost pile.

Troubleshooting Common Rhubarb Problems

Rhubarb is Not Producing Enough Stalks

If your rhubarb plant is not producing enough stalks, it may be due to over-harvesting or poor soil conditions. Make sure you are only harvesting a third of the plant's stalks at a time, and fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in early spring.

Rhubarb Leaves are Turning Yellow

Yellowing leaves can be a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Check the soil around your rhubarb plant to make sure it is not waterlogged. If the soil is too wet, amend it with compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage.

Rhubarb Stalks are Thin and Stringy

Thin, stringy stalks can be a sign of insufficient sunlight or nutrients. Make sure your rhubarb plant is receiving at least six hours of sun per day, and fertilize it with a balanced fertilizer in early spring.

Recipes Featuring Rhubarb

Rhubarb Pie Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound rhubarb stalks, chopped
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1 pie crust, unbaked

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chopped rhubarb, sugar, flour, and salt.
3. Pour the mixture into the unbaked pie crust.
4. Dot the top of the mixture with small pieces of butter.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is bubbling and the crust is golden brown.

Rhubarb Crumble Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 cups rhubarb, chopped
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chopped rhubarb, flour, rolled oats, and brown sugar.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the melted butter and cinnamon.
5. Pour the butter mixture over the rhubarb mixture.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rhubarb Gardening

1. Can I grow rhubarb in containers?

Yes, you can grow rhubarb in containers, but make sure the container is at least 24 inches deep to accommodate the plant's deep roots.

2. How often should I fertilize my rhubarb plants?

Fertilize your rhubarb plants once per year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer, following the manufacturer's instructions.

3. When should I divide my rhubarb plants?

Divide your rhubarb plants every four to five years in early spring, before new growth appears.

4. Can I eat rhubarb raw?

Rhubarb is tart and fibrous when raw, so it's best to cook it before eating.

5. How long does a rhubarb plant live?

A healthy rhubarb plant can live for 10-15 years or more with proper care and maintenance.


Growing your own rhubarb is a rewarding experience that can provide you with delicious, fresh produce for years to come. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your rhubarb plants thrive and produce abundant stalks each year. Whether you prefer rhubarb pie, crumble, or jam, there's nothing quite like the taste of homegrown rhubarb!