Rhubarb is a delicious and versatile plant that can be used in sweet or savory dishes. It’s easy to grow and can produce a bumper crop with proper care. In this blog post, we’ll share some tips on how to get the most out of your rhubarb plants.
The Basics of Rhubarb.
Rhubarb is a perennial plant that belongs to the buckwheat family. It is native to Asia and has been used medicinally for centuries. The rhubarb plant has large, fleshy leaves and thick, red or green stalks. The stalks are the part of the plant that is most commonly used in cooking.
Rhubarb is a cool weather crop and does not tolerate heat well. It should be planted in early spring, as soon as the ground can be worked. Rhubarb prefers a sunny location with well-drained soil. The plants will need to be spaced about 2-3 feet apart.
Planting Rhubarb
To plant rhubarb, start with crowns that have been divided from established plants. Plant the crowns so that they are just barely covered with soil. Water well after planting and fertilize with a balanced fertilizer according to package directions.
It is important to wait until the second year after planting before harvesting any of the stalks. This will allow the plants to become established and produce a bumper crop in subsequent years.
Caring for Rhubarb
Caring for rhubarb is relatively easy once it is established. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, and fertilize every few weeks during the growing season. Be sure to keep the area around the plants free of weeds so they don’t compete for moisture and nutrients.
Tips for a Bumper Crop.
Rhubarb is a heavy feeder and benefits from being fertilized regularly. A well-balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10 or 8-8-8 can be used. Apply the fertilizer around the plant, being careful not to get any on the leaves, and water it in well. For best results, fertilize rhubarb every four to six weeks during the growing season.
Watering Rhubarb.
Rhubarb needs about an inch of water per week, either from rainfall or irrigation. If you live in an area with little rainfall, you will need to water your plants more often. Be sure to water deeply so that the roots grow deep and strong. Avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can promote fungal diseases.
Pruning Rhubarb.
Pruning is not necessary for rhubarb, but it can help encourage new growth and prevent the plant from becoming too crowded. To prune, simply cut out any dead or dying stems at ground level with a sharp knife or shears.
Harvesting Rhubarb.
The best time to harvest rhubarb is in the early morning, after the dew has evaporated but before the heat of the day sets in. Rhubarb stalks are at their peak of flavor and sweetness at this time.
To determine when your rhubarb is ready to harvest, look for stalks that are at least 12 inches (30 cm) long and have a deep red color. Avoid harvesting any green or yellow stalks, as these will be sour and bitter.
How to Harvest Rhubarb.
Harvesting rhubarb is simple: just cut the stalk at its base with a sharp knife or garden shears. Be sure to wear gloves when handling rhubarb, as the leaves contain oxalic acid which can cause skin irritation.
After you have harvested your rhubarb, it is important to remove any leaves from the plant as these are poisonous. Only the stalks should be eaten raw or cooked; never eat the leaves of a rhubarb plant!
Once you have harvested your rhubarb, you can enjoy it fresh, cooked, or baked in pies and other desserts.
Conclusion
If you follow these tips, you should be able to grow a bumper crop of rhubarb. Rhubarb is a delicious and versatile plant, and with a little care, it can thrive in your garden. So get out there and start growing!
