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Does rhubarb need a lot of water?
Rhubarb needs an open, sunny site with moist, but free-draining soil, as it dislikes being waterlogged in winter. Avoid planting in sites that are particularly prone to late frosts, as the young stems may be damaged. Rhubarb can be grown from seed, but it’s more common to plant dormant crowns between autumn and spring.
Does rhubarb need sun or shade?
Once established, there’s little work required. A happy plant will produce for decades. Grow rhubarb in full sun, in rich, lightly moist soil. In hot regions (USDA hardiness zone 6 and higher), plant rhubarb where it will get some protection from hot afternoon sun.
How do you care for rhubarb?
Rhubarb grows best in full sun, but will tolerate partial shade. Choose a site with soil that is well-draining and fertile. Good drainage is essential, as rhubarb will rot if kept too wet. Mix compost, rotted manure, or anything high in organic matter into the soil.
When is the best time to water rhubarb?
If it is soggy, let it dry out for a couple of days and check again. If it is bone dry, the plants need water. When watering rhubarb plants, concentrate your efforts at the base of the plant. Wet foliage may encourage pest and disease problems to develop. It’s a good idea to water in the early morning hours.
What’s the best way to care for rhubarb plants?
Take the crowns and place them in the ground. Don’t put them more than 1 or 2 inches into the soil or they won’t come up. As flower stalks appear on the growing rhubarb, remove them right away so they don’t rob the plant of nutrients. Make sure you water the plants during dry weather; rhubarb doesn’t tolerate drought.
How big of a pot do you need for rhubarb plant?
Don’t put them more than 1 or 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm.) into the soil or they won’t come up. As flower stalks appear on the growing rhubarb, remove them right away so they don’t rob the plant of nutrients. Make sure you water the plants during dry weather; rhubarb doesn’t tolerate drought.
How often do you need to split a rhubarb plant?
But take care not to cover the crown as this may cause it to rot. • Winter: Every five or six years you’ll need to lift and divide the rhubarb crowns in order to maintain their vigour and ensure that the plants remain productive. Use a spade to lift each crown before splitting it into 3 or 4 pieces and replanting them separately.