Rhubarb: A Guide to Growing and Winter Care
Introduction
Rhubarb is a perennial plant that produces tangy, colorful stalks that are perfect for making pies, compotes, and jams. It’s a hardy plant that can grow in most climates, but it does require some special care during the winter months.
Growing Conditions
Rhubarb prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It’s important to choose a planting site that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Rhubarb is also a heavy feeder, so it’s important to amend the soil with plenty of organic matter, such as compost or manure.
Winter Care
Rhubarb plants need a period of cold weather in order to produce stems in the spring. In areas with cold winters, rhubarb will naturally go dormant during the winter months. However, in warmer climates, it’s necessary to take steps to protect rhubarb from the heat and provide the necessary chilling period.
Protecting Rhubarb in Winter
- Mulching: A layer of mulch around the base of the plant will help to insulate the crown and protect it from excessive cold. Use 4 to 6 inches of organic compost or shredded leaves.
- Freezing Crowns: In areas where the winter average temperature is above 40 degrees Fahrenheit, rhubarb crowns can be dug up and frozen for at least six weeks. This will mimic the cold temperatures that rhubarb needs to produce stems in the spring.
Forcing Rhubarb Stems
If you want to enjoy rhubarb stems in the off-season, you can force them indoors. To do this, dig up the crowns in late fall and place them in a pot filled with potting mix. Keep the pot in a cool, dark place for at least two weeks. Then, move the pot to a warm, sunny location and water regularly. The crowns will start to produce stems within a few weeks.
Dividing Rhubarb
Dividing rhubarb plants is a good way to propagate new plants and improve the health of existing ones. Rhubarb plants should be divided every four to five years. To divide a rhubarb plant, dig it up in early spring and cut the crown into several pieces, each with at least two or three growth nodes. Replant the pieces in well-drained soil and water well.
Growing Rhubarb from Seed
Rhubarb can also be grown from seed. Sow the seeds in flats in September and transplant the seedlings outdoors in late October. Keep the seedlings well-watered and protected from frost.
Conclusion
Rhubarb is a versatile and easy-to-grow plant that can provide you with delicious, tangy stems for many years to come. By following these tips, you can ensure that your rhubarb plants thrive both in the summer and winter months.
