Rhubarb is the perfect plant for beginners. It’s hardy, pretty, and prolific. This article will teach you everything you need to know about growing rhubarb in your garden.
What is Rhubarb?
Rhubarb is a perennial vegetable that grows from an underground rhizome. The leaves are dark green with red stalks. The stalks can be eaten (they have a tart, almost sour flavor) or used for pies or jams. The stalks grow in the spring, turn red and then die back in the fall. A new stalk will grow at the end of the previous year’s stalk when temperatures are below 50 degrees F. Each new stalk will be at least 10 times larger than one-year-old stalks. This plant is hardy in USDA Zones 3-8 and requires little care once established.
Where to Plant Rhubarb
When you’re ready to plant rhubarb, choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-drained soil. Rhubarb doesn’t mind a little crowding, so you can plant it close to other vegetables or flowers in your garden. Just be sure to leave enough space for the roots to spread out.
Dig a hole that’s twice as wide as the root ball of your rhubarb plant. Gently loosen the roots and place the plant in the hole so that the crown (where the leaves meet the stem) is about an inch below the soil surface. Backfill the hole and water deeply.
How to Care for Rhubarb Plants
Rhubarb is a great addition to any garden, and with a little care, it can thrive for years. Here are some tips on how to care for your rhubarb plants:
– Water regularly. Rhubarb needs consistent moisture to grow well. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather.
– Fertilize in spring. Apply a balanced fertilizer to the soil around your plants in early spring. Reapply every few weeks throughout the growing season.
– Mulch in summer. Spread a layer of organic mulch around your plants in summer to help retain moisture and keep the roots cool.
– Cut back in fall. After the first frost, cut back all of the leaves from your plants. This will help them to overwinter and come back stronger in spring.
When is rhubarb ready to harvest?
Rhubarb is ready to harvest when the stalks are at least 12 inches long. To harvest, cut the stalk at the base with a sharp knife. You can also twist the stalk to break it off. Be sure to leave about 2 inches of the stalk attached to the plant so it can continue to grow.
How to Use Rhubarb
Rhubarb is a versatile plant that can be used in many different ways. Here are some tips on how to use rhubarb in your garden:
-Rhubarb leaves can be used as mulch or compost.
-Rhubarb stalks can be cut and used as stakes for tomato plants or other vegetables.
-Rhubarb can be used to make jam, jelly, or pies.
-Rhubarb can also be dried and used as a herbal tea.