Rhubarb is a long, stalky vegetable belonging to the buckwheat family. Known for its tart, sour flavor, its fleshy edible stems are commonly used in making pies, sauces, pickles, soups, and other sweet and savory dishes. While not everyone appreciates its tangy taste, rhubarb remains a popular culinary delight that signifies changing seasons while giving deserts and pies a unique twist.
The vegetable thrives in temperate, mountainous regions such as Denver, CO, and can live for 10 years or more. At Nick’s, we are always happy to help gardeners make the most of their gardens. Here is what you need to know about growing, harvesting, and storing rhubarb.
Rhubarb Basics
Rhubarb is a perennial. It comes back year after year, usually arriving in spring. Mature plants can reach 3-4 feet tall and wide.
Although most plants will be ready for harvest just one year after planting, it is generally recommended to wait at least two years before harvesting. This will give the roots enough time to grow strong and generate enough mass. The harvest season is primarily spring and early summer (May to June in Denver).
Planting & Care
Under the right conditions, growing rhubarb is very easy. Choose a spot with full sun or partial shade. Rhubarb prefers moist, free-draining, fertile soils with a slightly acidic pH. Apply well-broken-down compost or a balanced fertilizer in spring to provide the necessary nutrients to grow a strong, healthy plant.
Although the plant can still do well in hot areas, do not allow the plant to dry out as this will inhibit growth. You will get much better results if you water deeply and consistently, especially when the weather is hot and dry. Newly planted rhubarb needs careful attention, including watering regularly throughout the growing season. In the fall, remember to mulch around the base of the plant to boost soil fertility, retain moisture, and keep weeds away.
Companion Planting
When growing rhubarb, companion planting can deter pests, provide shade, and improve plant growth, among other benefits. Some good companions include:
- Cabbage: Rhubarb leaves are rich in oxalic acid which can act as a natural insect repellant. Its scent can deter whiteflies from cabbage and other brassicas such as cauliflower and broccoli.
- Lettuce: Rhubarb’s large leaves can provide much-needed shade for lettuce during the dry season.
- Onions: Onions can keep aphids, leaf beetles, and weevils away from young rhubarb plants
- Peas: Rhubarb can deter black flies, a destructive pest that attacks peas and other legumes. Peas add nitrogen to the soil, providing more nutrients for rhubarb to feast on.
Avoid planting rhubarb plants close together (overcrowding) as it can lead to subpar growth and decreased yields. Aim for 3-4 feet between plants for optimal growth.
Harvesting & Storage
Leaves, rather than stalks, generally indicate readiness for harvest. Fully open leaves that are starting to show signs of aging suggest that the stalks are ready for harvest. Harvest stalks when they are 12-18 inches tall. When harvesting, grab and pull the stalks from the base.
Try not to harvest more than half of the plant mass as this may take away too much of its nutrient storage ability and cause your plants to weaken and die. Also, harvesting too late in the summer may not leave enough time for the plant to prepare for the cold season.
Once harvested, store the fresh stalks in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also cut the rhubarb into small pieces and store it frozen.
Pests & Diseases
Rhubarb is a hardy and resistant plant that is not commonly affected by pests and diseases. Some common pests that may affect the plant include:
- Crown rot
- Aphids
- Spider mites
Most of these issues generally stem from improper plant care. Prevention may involve:
- Proper watering. Mounding the soil and adding organic matter can help promote soil drainage.
- Good air circulation: Removing weeds and other plant debris can help promote air circulation.
Grow Healthy Rhubarb with Nick’s Garden
Rhubarb is considered a low-maintenance plant that does very well in Denver. With well-watered, fertile soil and sufficient sunlight, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of rhubarb every year. Give it a try. Talk to the team at Nick’s Garden for more information about growing rhubarb in Denver.
