I just received a rhubarb plant from my mum, and I'd love some advice! I'm located in central Scotland, and I'm planning to plant it in a bed that goes between my roses and peonies, but I'm a bit worried about space and care. I don't have a big cloche for it, but I think I have a decent-sized ceramic pot in the shed that I could use until next year. Any suggestions on how to care for it?
3 Answers
Congrats on the rhubarb! Make sure you give it about a meter of space – they really spread out. Rhubarb actually does well in both sun and shade, so you should be fine. I don’t use a cloche either; instead, I cover the crown with straw during winter. Just remember to plant it without burying the very top of the crown where the leaves grow out from the root. Also, let it settle in this year without harvesting, and next year, you can pick from it every other year to keep the roots strong. Good luck!
I learned the hard way that rhubarb needs good soil! Mine really took off once I moved it next to the compost bin for better nutrients. Letting the last few leaves rot on top during winter acts as a nice mulch too. Find a spot that gives it decent access to nutrients, and you should see it thrive!
Sounds like if it doesn’t work here, I’ll need to rethink things because the front garden is solid clay!
Just a heads up, if you force the plant too much, it could weaken it. Stick to harvesting the red stems rather than forcing it, especially since you have only one plant. It sounds like you won't have a problem with space, which is great since they do like a bit of room. Even if it's mainly shady from the tree and shed, it should still grow well. Enjoy your gardening!
Is using a cloche considered forcing it? I’m only planning to eat a little, so I don’t need a huge harvest anyway. Thanks for confirming the shade situation!
That sounds good! I think my space is just shy of a meter, so I’ll give it a shot. Appreciate the tips!