How to Grow Rhubarb Crowns: A Step-by-Step Guide
Rhubarb crowns are a delightful addition to any garden, as they offer a burst of color and flavor. Growing rhubarb crowns can be a rewarding experience, providing you with fresh, organic rhubarb for years to come. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to grow rhubarb crowns successfully.
1. Choose the Right Location
The first step in growing rhubarb crowns is to select the right location. Rhubarb thrives in cool climates and requires full sun or partial shade. It is best to plant rhubarb in a spot that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. Additionally, ensure that the soil is well-draining and fertile.
2. Purchase Rhubarb Crowns
Next, you will need to purchase rhubarb crowns. These can be found at local nurseries or garden centers. Look for crowns that are firm, plump, and free of any signs of disease or damage.
3. Prepare the Soil
Before planting the rhubarb crowns, prepare the soil by loosening it to a depth of 12 to 18 inches. Mix in organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve soil fertility and drainage. This will create an ideal environment for your rhubarb to grow.
4. Planting the Crowns
Plant the rhubarb crowns in early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked. Dig a hole that is twice the width of the crown and about 6 inches deep. Place the crown in the hole with the bud union (the area where the roots and stems meet) at the soil surface. Backfill the hole with soil, pressing it firmly around the crown to remove air pockets.
5. Watering and Mulching
After planting, water the rhubarb crowns thoroughly to settle the soil. Apply a layer of mulch, such as straw or wood chips, around the base of the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Keep the mulch about 2 inches away from the crowns to prevent rot.
6. Care and Maintenance
Rhubarb requires minimal care once established. Water the plants deeply during dry spells, but avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. In the first growing season, remove any flower spikes that appear to ensure the plant’s energy is focused on root development. After the first year, rhubarb plants will begin to produce stems, which can be harvested in the second year.
7. Harvesting Rhubarb
Rhubarb is ready for harvest when the stems are 1 to 2 inches in diameter and have bright red or green stalks. Use a sharp knife to cut the stems at the base of the plant, leaving the leaves behind. Do not remove more than one-third of the stems in any given year to allow the plant to replenish its energy.
8. Overwintering
In colder climates, rhubarb may need to be protected during the winter. Cover the crowns with a layer of straw or mulch to insulate them from freezing temperatures. Remove the mulch in the spring as the soil begins to warm.
By following these steps, you can successfully grow rhubarb crowns in your garden. Enjoy the vibrant color and delicious taste of homegrown rhubarb for years to come!
