Summary
- The foundation of a successful rhubarb patch lies in selecting a healthy crown.
- The best time to plant rhubarb crowns is in the early spring, before the soil warms up too much.
- With a little patience and care, you can enjoy the satisfying taste of homegrown rhubarb in a variety of culinary creations.
Rhubarb, with its vibrant stalks and tart flavor, is a beloved ingredient for pies, crumbles, and jams. But before you can enjoy those delicious treats, you need to know how to plant rhubarb crowns. This guide will walk you through the process, from selecting the right crown to ensuring a bountiful harvest.
Choosing the Right Rhubarb Crown
The foundation of a successful rhubarb patch lies in selecting a healthy crown. Look for these key characteristics:
- Size: Opt for crowns with a minimum of three buds, indicating vigorous growth potential.
- Firmness: The crown should feel firm and solid, free from any soft spots or signs of decay.
- Color: A healthy crown will have a vibrant, reddish-brown color. Avoid crowns with any discoloration or mold.
- Roots: Ensure the roots are well-developed and not dry or brittle.
Preparing the Planting Site
Rhubarb thrives in well-drained soil with ample sunlight. Here’s how to prepare the ideal planting site:
- Location: Choose a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Soil: Rhubarb prefers rich, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. Amend heavy clay soil with compost or peat moss to improve drainage.
- Spacing: Allow 3-4 feet between crowns to ensure adequate space for growth.
Planting Rhubarb Crowns
Timing: The best time to plant rhubarb crowns is in the early spring, before the soil warms up too much. However, you can also plant in late summer or early fall in milder climates.
Planting Process:
1. Dig a hole: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and about 12 inches deep.
2. Amend the soil: Mix some compost or aged manure into the bottom of the hole to provide nutrients.
3. Position the crown: Place the crown in the hole with the buds facing upwards.
4. Backfill the hole: Gently fill the hole with soil, ensuring the crown is level with the ground.
5. Water thoroughly: Water the crown deeply to settle the soil and promote root establishment.
Caring for Your Rhubarb Patch
Once planted, your rhubarb crowns need regular care to thrive.
- Watering: Water your rhubarb regularly, especially during dry periods. Aim for 1-2 inches of water per week.
- Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to provide essential nutrients. You can also use compost or manure as a natural fertilizer.
- Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the crowns to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Weed control: Keep the area around your rhubarb crowns weed-free to prevent competition for nutrients and water.
Harvesting Your Rhubarb
Rhubarb is typically ready for harvest in the second year after planting.
- Timing: Harvest rhubarb stalks in the spring, before the plant starts to flower.
- Harvesting technique: Cut the stalks about 1-2 inches above ground level, leaving some leaves on the plant for photosynthesis.
- Rotation: Harvest stalks from different crowns each year to allow for regrowth.
Protecting Your Rhubarb
Rhubarb can be susceptible to certain pests and diseases.
- Pests: Common pests include aphids, slugs, and snails. Control them with organic methods such as diatomaceous earth or insecticidal soap.
- Diseases: Rhubarb is vulnerable to crown rot, leaf spot, and rust. Good sanitation practices, such as removing infected leaves and debris, can help prevent these diseases.
Rhubarb Beyond the Garden
Once you’ve harvested your rhubarb, there are countless ways to enjoy its tart flavor.
- Culinary uses: Rhubarb is a versatile ingredient for pies, crumbles, jams, sauces, and even chutneys.
- Preserving: You can preserve rhubarb by freezing, canning, or making jams and jellies.
- Medicinal properties: Rhubarb has been used in traditional medicine for its laxative and digestive properties.
A Bountiful Harvest: The Rewards of Planting Rhubarb Crowns
Planting rhubarb crowns is an investment in delicious and healthy harvests for years to come. With a little patience and care, you can enjoy the satisfying taste of homegrown rhubarb in a variety of culinary creations.
What You Need to Know
Q: Can I plant rhubarb from seed?
A: While it’s possible to plant rhubarb from seed, it’s a much slower process. It’s generally easier and faster to start with a crown.
Q: How long does it take for rhubarb to grow?
A: Rhubarb typically takes about two years to reach maturity and produce a full harvest.
Q: When should I stop harvesting rhubarb?
A: Stop harvesting rhubarb stalks after mid-summer to allow the plant to focus its energy on storing nutrients for the next year.
Q: How do I divide a rhubarb crown?
A: To divide a rhubarb crown, dig it up in the early spring and carefully separate it into smaller sections, each with at least three buds. Plant the divisions as you would a new crown.
Q: Can I grow rhubarb in a pot?
A: You can grow rhubarb in a pot, but it will need a large container (at least 18 inches wide and deep) and regular fertilization.
