How do you split a rhubarb plant?
The first step to start dividing the plants is to carefully lift the plant you want to split, out of the ground. Because you want to keep as many roots (or rhizomes in the case of Rhubarb) on the plants you split off as possible, you need to use a garden fork and lift the plant from about a foot from the crown of the plant.
How far apart do you plant rhubarb crowns?
Plant the rhubarb crowns 3 to 4 feet apart, with the top of the crown 1 to 2 inches below the surface of the soil. Keep the crowns watered thoroughly during their first year in the ground. Wait until the plant is at least 2 years old before harvesting the leaves and take only three or four leaves from each plant.
Should rhubarb be divided up?
Dividing Rhubarb up is not only useful for propagating more plants, it’s also important for keeping the original plant healthy. The bigger it gets, the thinner and fewer the stems tend to be, and the whole plant can get a little out of control.
How do you revive a dying rhubarb plant?
To renew your rhubarb plant, you will want to dig up the root and divide it. Dividing rhubarb plants should be accomplished in the early spring as soon as the soil warms up enough to work it and prior to the emergence of the tender new shoots.
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What is the best time to split rhubarb?
springEarly spring is the best time to divide rhubarb plants. Dig up plants as soon as the ground can be worked in spring. Divide each plant into sections with a large knife or spade. Each section should have at least 2 or 3 buds or shoots and a large section of the root system.
Is it too late to divide rhubarb?
Plan to plant the divisions between late fall or early spring. For best results, plant the rhubarb in late winter while the weather is still cold. It is best to plant the rhizomes as soon as you finish dividing the original rhubarb.
Do you need to split rhubarb?
0:313:20Splitting Rhubarb | How To Guide | Kitchen Garden Magazine - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo it's a good idea every few years to lift the whole rhubarb plant. And then to split it and toMoreSo it's a good idea every few years to lift the whole rhubarb plant. And then to split it and to replant some of the outside parts of the rhubarb to get some fresh shoots a much better quality root.
Can you split a rhubarb plant and transplant it?
Divide large clumps with a sharp spade or butcher knife. Each section (division) should have at least 1 or 2 buds and a portion of the root system. Replant the rhubarb as soon as possible. The roots must not be allowed to dry out prior to planting.
What is the best fertilizer for rhubarb?
Rhubarb plants respond best when they are fertilized with 10-10-10 fertilizer or a combination of composted manure and phosphorus. While 10-10-10 fertilizer is a great choice, if you want to follow an all-natural gardening plan, the compost-and-phosphorus method is the organic choice for rhubarb.
What kills rhubarb?
Mix a lawn weed killer according to the manufacturer's instructions. Most lawn weed killers will also kill rhubarb. To find the right weed killer, look for a broadleaf weed killer that has been formulated for use on lawns and that contains Dimethylamine salt.
How do you split a rhubarb plant?
Splitting your rhubarb plants isn't rocket science. Simply dig around the root clump, 6 inches deep (15 cm.) and lift the whole plant from the ground. Divide the root ball into sections containing at least one bud and up to two to three buds with plenty of roots by cutting down through the crown between the buds.
When can you transplant rhubarb crowns?
Rhubarb can be transplanted in early spring or early fall (mid-September through early October). Rhubarb does best in fertile, well-drained soils and full sun. The best time to transplant rhubarb is in early spring before growth begins.
How do you prune rhubarb for winter?
Prune back the rhubarb stalks to the ground in late fall or early winter after they begin to die back naturally from frost. Rhubarb may not die back completely if temperatures remain above 40 degrees Fahrenheit, but dead and damaged leaves can still be removed throughout winter, cutting them with shears or a knife.
What is the best way to transplant rhubarb?
After digging up and dividing the crown and root clumps, dig a hole, slightly larger than the divided plant ready for transplanting, and place the crown in the hole, (filled with water), with its roots facing downwards. The top of the crown should be about 1 1/2 - 2 inches below the soil surface.
Does rhubarb need full sun?
Rhubarb thrives in full sun but will yield to light shade. Select a location that gives plants ample room; individual rhubarb plants can measure up to four feet wide and tall. Plant crowns in spring as soon as soil is workable.
Does rhubarb spread on its own?
Space roots two to three feet apart. They will spread and fill in open spaces. The plants tolerate a little crowding, but the stalks and leaves will grow bigger and healthier if you allow them plenty of space. A few plants are all you will need for a home garden.
Can you divide rhubarb in late spring?
When to Divide Rhubarb. To renew your rhubarb plant, you will want to dig up the root and divide it. Dividing rhubarb plants should be accomplished in the early spring as soon as the soil warms up enough to work it and prior to the emergence of the tender new shoots.
Is it too late to transplant rhubarb?
Rhubarb can be transplanted in early spring or early fall (mid-September through early October). Rhubarb does best in fertile, well-drained soils and full sun.
How long does a rhubarb plant last?
10 yearsA healthy rhubarb plant will remain productive for at least 10 years so it makes an excellent investment. During the first year, you'll need to resist the temptation to harvest the stems. But from the second year, you can harvest your rhubarb from April to June.
Can you eat rhubarb the first year after transplanting?
According to the University of California's Master Gardeners Program of Sonoma County, gardeners should avoid cutting stalks from rhubarb the first year after planting the rhubarb crowns.
Tips
If you need to, use a gardening fork to lift the rhubarb out of the soil.
Warnings
Never eat the leaves. Only harvest and eat the stalks. Once you harvest the stalks, you also need to know how to store them properly to ensure they remain fresh and safe to consume.
About This Article
This article was co-authored by Maggie Moran. Maggie Moran is a Professional Gardener in Pennsylvania. This article has been viewed 76,330 times.
Why You Might Split Rhubarb
The first thing to think about if you are considering this process is why you might wish to do so.
How To Split Rhubarb
First of all, when planning to split rhubarb, it is important to think about where the divisions will be going.
When To Split Rhubarb
It is best to split mature rhubarb plants during the dormant period, sometime between Autumn and very early spring.
How To Divide Rhubarb
Dividing (or splitting) Rhubarb is really easy. It can seem a little barbaric when you’re doing it but, I promise, you’ll be richly rewarded for your brutality.
Replanting Rhubarb Crowns
Once I’ve divided all my plants up I take the strongest looking plant with new buds and replant it back into the patch.
Maintaining Your Rhubarb
In the coming season you can harvest the stems of your replanted Rhubarb, but don’t go crazy on it. Give your plants a chance to recover and put out only the stems you need this season, so that the following seasons will be even better with a healthier, stronger plant.
When to Divide Rhubarb
When to divide rhubarb crowns varies from five to 15 years, according to Cornell University Home Gardening, although the exact timing depends on the growing conditions and health of the plant. An overall loss of vigor and productivity is the surest sign that it's time to divide a rhubarb crown, regardless of its age.
How to Divide Rhubarb
Dividing rhubarb is a simple process, but it takes effort due to the sheer size of most mature rhubarb plants. Dig down a few inches around the outer edge of the rhubarb plant using a sharp shovel or garden fork. Carefully pry the rhubarb root ball from the soil as you move around the outer edge of the plant.
Planting Rhubarb Divisions
Transplant rhubarb crown divisions as soon as possible so the roots won't dry out. Prepare a planting site a few days ahead of time; dig the bed in a sunny location with fertile, fast-draining soil.