How to Grow Rhubarb Guide

Growing Non-GMO Canadian Red Rhubarb Crowns

Make sure your growing site is free of weeds. Plant the crowns in well-draining soil enriched with organic material that has been dug 6-12 inches deep, ensuring that the roots are positioned about 2 inches below the soil surface. The crown should be placed so the eyes are no more than 2 inches deep with the buds facing up. Replace the soil around the root and tamp down. Water well. Choose a location with full sun exposure, although Canadian Red Rhubarb can tolerate some shade. Plant the crowns as soon as the soil is workable in spring. Soils should be a minimum of 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The cold-tolerant nature of rhubarb makes it well-suited for early spring planting. Once planted, maintain a consistent moisture level in the soil, avoiding waterlogged conditions that can lead to root rot. Apply a layer of mulch to suppress weeds and conserve soil moisture.

The plant's hardiness in zones 4-9 makes it adaptable to various climates. Maintain a consistent moisture level in the soil, avoiding waterlogged conditions, and apply mulch to suppress weeds. Keep in mind that rhubarb prefers cooler temperatures, making it well-suited for northern regions. Remove any flower stalks promptly to redirect energy into stalk production. Additionally, feeding the plants with well-rotted compost and fertilizer at the start of the season can enhance yield and quality.

Canadian Red Rhubarb in the Vegetable Garden

Canadian Red Rhubarb serves as a versatile addition to both home and commercial gardens. Beyond its culinary applications, where the sweet, juicy stalks are prized for jams, pies, sauces, and other delectable treats, this rhubarb variety can have additional roles in the garden. While not typically used as a companion plant or pest control, its large crinkled leaves and bold spikes of white flowers contribute to ornamental appeal. In home gardens, Canadian Red Rhubarb adds aesthetic value with its vibrant red stalks and lush foliage. Commercially, its reliable and productive nature makes it a valuable crop for those looking to harvest rhubarb for local markets or culinary businesses. Additionally, the plant's cold-hardiness and adaptability to zones 4-9 broaden its geographical range, allowing gardeners in various climates to enjoy the benefits of growing this attractive and flavorful rhubarb variety.

Harvesting Canadian Red Rhubarb Crowns

Harvesting Canadian Red Rhubarb requires patience and strategic timing for optimal flavor and productivity. Begin harvesting only a few stalks in the second year, allowing the plant to establish robust roots in its initial growth phase. When stalks reach a length of about 12-18 inches, they are ready for harvest. However, some gardeners prefer to harvest rhubarb young for its stronger flavor. Grasp the stalk near the base and gently pull, allowing it to snap off naturally. Alternatively, you can use a knife to cut the stalk at the soil level. By the third year, you can enjoy a more abundant and full harvest. It's crucial not to harvest all the stalks to ensure the plant's continued vigor. Never harvest more than a third of the stalks. Remove any flower stalks as soon as they appear to redirect energy into stalk production. Store harvested rhubarb in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, preferably in a perforated plastic bag to maintain freshness. For longer-term storage, consider freezing or canning the rhubarb to preserve its unique flavor for culinary delights throughout the year. For continued growth be sure to divide your plants every 6-10 years.

About Canadian Red Rhubarb Crowns

Canadian Red Rhubarb, also known as Rheum rhabarbarum 'Canada Red,' is a cold-hardy and heat-tolerant perennial prized for its vibrant red stalks with a higher sugar content than other varieties.

Developed for both its ornamental and edible qualities, this variety thrives in Hardiness Zones 4-9. With smaller, more slender stalks and minimal seed production, it's a favorite for home gardeners seeking sweet and juicy rhubarb for various culinary delights.

This variety adds a pop of color to gardens and landscapes, reaching a height of about 24 inches with a spread of approximately 3 feet.

While the stalks are a delicious addition to recipes, it's important to note that the leaves are toxic and should not be consumed.

When growing this rhubarb, keep the area around the plant weed-free, and remove any flower heads promptly to encourage robust stalk production. With proper care, Canada Red Rhubarb can provide a bountiful harvest.

Rich in vitamins C and K, calcium, potassium, and fiber, it not only delights the taste buds but also offers nutritional benefits.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"To give your Canadian Red Rhubarb an extra boost, consider incorporating crushed eggshells into the soil around the base of the plants. Eggshells are a fantastic natural source of calcium, which is essential for strong cell wall development in the rhubarb stalks. Calcium deficiency can sometimes lead to issues like blossom end rot in certain crops, and while rhubarb is not a fruiting plant, the robustness of its stalks can benefit from the added calcium. The slow release of calcium from the eggshells contributes to the overall health of the plant, supporting its growth and enhancing the quality of the harvested stalks. Simply save your eggshells, crush them into small pieces, and sprinkle them around the base of your Canadian Red Rhubarb plants. This simple, cost-effective tip can contribute to the long-term vitality of your rhubarb patch."

- Chelsea Hafer, True Leaf Market Writer

Additional Resources

Ohio State University - Growing Rhubarb in the Home Garden

Canadian Red Rhubarb Crowns Per Package:

• 2 Root Pack
• 4 Root Pack

Non-GMO Canadian Red Rhubarb Crowns are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.