How To Divide Rhubarb Plants: A Gardener's Guide

Dividing rhubarb plants is an essential practice for maintaining healthy and productive crops. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about dividing rhubarb, from understanding when and why to divide, to the step-by-step process, and post-division care. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a beginner, this article will provide you with the knowledge and confidence to successfully divide your rhubarb plants and ensure their continued vitality.

Why Divide Rhubarb Plants?

Dividing rhubarb plants is crucial for several reasons, all of which contribute to the overall health and productivity of your rhubarb patch. Over time, rhubarb crowns can become overcrowded, leading to a decrease in stalk size and overall yield. Regular division every 4-5 years helps to rejuvenate the plants, ensuring they remain vigorous and productive. Think of it as giving your rhubarb a fresh start, allowing it to thrive without competition from itself. An overcrowded crown can also become susceptible to diseases and pests, so division helps to mitigate these risks. By dividing, you’re essentially creating new plants from the parent plant, expanding your rhubarb patch or sharing with fellow gardening enthusiasts. This is a fantastic way to propagate your favorite varieties and ensure you have a continuous supply of delicious rhubarb for years to come. So, guys, let's dive deeper into the benefits and why this process is so vital for your rhubarb!

One of the primary reasons to divide your rhubarb is to prevent overcrowding. When rhubarb plants grow, they expand their crown, which is the central part of the plant from which the stalks emerge. As the crown gets larger, the individual stalks may become thinner and less productive because they're competing for the same resources—nutrients, water, and sunlight. By dividing the crown, you give each section more space to grow and access these essential elements, leading to healthier, thicker stalks. This process is like giving each rhubarb section its own room to flourish, rather than cramming everyone into one small space. It ensures that each plant has ample opportunity to reach its full potential, resulting in a more abundant harvest for you. Overcrowding can also lead to a tangled mess of roots and crowns, making it difficult for the plant to absorb nutrients effectively. So, regular division is not just about maintaining size but also about optimizing the plant's ability to feed itself and grow strong.

Another significant benefit of dividing rhubarb plants is to rejuvenate older plants. Like any perennial, rhubarb can become less vigorous as it ages. The center of the crown may start to die out, while the outer parts continue to grow. This can lead to a decline in overall productivity and the quality of the stalks. Dividing the plant allows you to remove the older, less productive sections and replant the younger, more vigorous parts. This process essentially gives the plant a new lease on life, promoting fresh growth and a healthier crown. It's like a spa day for your rhubarb, where you’re giving it a chance to shed the old and embrace the new. By selecting the healthiest sections for replanting, you ensure that your new plants are strong and capable of producing a bountiful harvest. This rejuvenation process is key to maintaining a thriving rhubarb patch for many years.

Furthermore, rhubarb division is an excellent way to propagate new plants. Instead of buying new rhubarb plants, you can simply divide your existing ones to create additional plants. This is a cost-effective way to expand your rhubarb patch or share plants with friends and neighbors. Each division, if done correctly, will grow into a new, independent plant that carries the same characteristics as the parent plant. This means you can replicate your favorite varieties and ensure you have a consistent supply of rhubarb. It’s also a great way to safeguard against losing a particular variety if something happens to the parent plant. Think of it as making copies of your favorite book—you're ensuring that the story continues by creating new versions. By propagating through division, you’re not only expanding your garden but also preserving the genetics of your prized rhubarb plants. This is especially valuable for heirloom varieties or those with unique characteristics.

In addition to promoting growth and propagation, dividing rhubarb also helps to prevent diseases and pests. Overcrowded rhubarb crowns can create a damp, shaded environment that is conducive to fungal diseases and pest infestations. By dividing the plants, you improve air circulation around the crowns, reducing the risk of these problems. Better airflow allows the leaves and stalks to dry more quickly after rain, which helps to prevent fungal diseases from taking hold. Additionally, a less crowded plant is easier to inspect for pests, making it easier to take action if needed. It’s like decluttering your house to make it easier to clean—by reducing the clutter, you make it harder for pests and diseases to find a home. Regular division helps to keep your rhubarb plants healthy and vigorous, reducing the need for chemical treatments and ensuring a more sustainable garden.

When is the Best Time to Divide Rhubarb?

The best time to divide rhubarb is typically in early spring or late fall when the plant is dormant. Dormancy is the period when the plant is not actively growing, making it less susceptible to stress during the division process. In early spring, before new growth emerges, the plant has stored energy reserves that can support the divided sections. In late fall, after the growing season has ended and the plant has begun to go dormant, the weather is cooler, and the soil is moist, which also favors successful division. Timing is crucial because dividing rhubarb during its active growing season can shock the plant and reduce its chances of survival. Imagine trying to move a sleeping giant—it’s much easier when they’re still snoozing! So, let's break down the specifics of spring and fall divisions to help you decide the best time for your garden.

Dividing rhubarb in early spring offers several advantages. As the plant is just emerging from dormancy, it has a full season ahead to establish itself in its new location. The cooler temperatures and frequent rainfall in spring also help to reduce stress on the divided plants and keep the soil moist, promoting root growth. This gives the new divisions a strong start and allows them to develop a robust root system before the heat of summer arrives. It's like giving your rhubarb a head start in a race—they have the whole season to build momentum and grow strong. Another benefit of spring division is that you can easily see the new buds emerging, making it easier to identify healthy sections for replanting. These buds indicate where new growth will occur, so you can ensure that each division has a good chance of success. However, it’s crucial to divide early in the spring, before the plant has put too much energy into new growth. Dividing too late can still shock the plant, so timing is key.

Dividing rhubarb in late fall also has its benefits. By this time, the plant has finished its growing season and has stored energy in its roots for the winter. The cooler temperatures and increased moisture levels help the divided plants establish themselves before the ground freezes. Although the plants won’t show much top growth until the following spring, their roots will continue to develop over the winter, giving them a head start for the next growing season. It's like planting a seed in the fall—it sits quietly over the winter, building strength and ready to burst forth in the spring. Fall division also allows you to avoid disrupting the plant during its active growth period, which can reduce stress and improve survival rates. Additionally, you’ll have one less task to worry about in the busy spring gardening season. However, it’s important to ensure that the divided plants have enough time to establish some roots before the ground freezes solid. This usually means dividing at least a few weeks before the first expected frost. Mulching around the newly divided plants can also help to insulate the soil and protect the roots from freezing temperatures.

Choosing between spring and fall division often depends on your local climate and personal preference. In regions with mild winters, fall division may be more successful as the plants have a longer period to establish roots. In colder climates, spring division may be preferable to avoid the risk of winter damage. Consider your own gardening schedule and the weather patterns in your area when making your decision. You might also consider dividing a portion of your rhubarb in the spring and another portion in the fall to spread the risk and see which time works best for you. Ultimately, the goal is to divide the plants when they are least stressed and have the best chance of successful establishment. So, weigh your options, consider your climate, and choose the time that feels right for you and your rhubarb.

Step-by-Step Guide to Dividing Rhubarb

Now that you understand the why and when, let's get into the how of dividing rhubarb plants. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire process, ensuring you have healthy and thriving rhubarb divisions. Remember, patience and care are key to success. We'll cover everything from preparing your tools to planting the divisions, so you'll be well-equipped to tackle this task like a pro. So, grab your gloves and let’s get started!

1. Gather Your Tools

Before you begin, it's essential to gather all the necessary tools. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and more efficient. You'll need a sharp spade or garden fork, a sharp knife or saw, gardening gloves, and a wheelbarrow or tarp for transporting the divided sections. A sturdy pair of gloves is crucial to protect your hands, as rhubarb crowns can be quite tough and the tools you'll be using are sharp. A spade or garden fork is needed to dig up the rhubarb crown from the ground, while a sharp knife or saw will be used to divide the crown into sections. Make sure your cutting tools are clean and sharp to make clean cuts and minimize damage to the plant. A wheelbarrow or tarp is helpful for moving the heavy rhubarb sections to their new locations. Having these tools ready before you start digging will save you time and effort, allowing you to focus on the task at hand. Think of it as prepping your kitchen before cooking a meal—having all your ingredients and utensils ready makes the process much more enjoyable and efficient.

2. Dig Up the Rhubarb Plant

Carefully dig around the rhubarb plant to loosen the soil. Insert the spade or garden fork about 12 inches away from the base of the plant to avoid damaging the crown. Gently lift the plant from the ground, trying to keep as much of the root ball intact as possible. Rhubarb crowns can be quite large and heavy, so you may need to use some leverage to lift it out. If the plant is particularly large or the soil is compacted, you may need to dig around it in a circle, gradually loosening the roots. Once you've lifted the plant, gently shake off any excess soil so you can see the crown more clearly. This will make it easier to identify the best sections for division. If the plant is extremely heavy, you may need to enlist a friend or family member to help you lift it. Remember to lift with your legs, not your back, to avoid injury. The goal is to remove the plant from the ground with minimal damage to the roots, so take your time and be gentle.

3. Divide the Crown

Inspect the rhubarb crown and identify sections with healthy buds (the pink or red “eyes” from which new stalks will grow) and a good root system. Each division should have at least 2-3 healthy buds. Use a sharp knife or saw to cut the crown into sections, ensuring each section has a portion of the root system and the necessary buds. Make clean, decisive cuts to minimize damage to the plant tissue. If the crown is very dense and tangled, you may need to use a saw to cut through it. Be careful when using sharp tools, and always cut away from yourself. If you encounter any diseased or damaged sections, discard them. Only use healthy sections for replanting. The goal is to create divisions that are capable of growing into strong, independent plants. Think of it as cutting a cake—you want each slice to be a complete piece with all the necessary elements. Each division should have a good balance of roots and buds to ensure successful growth.

4. Replant the Divisions

Choose a location with well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight for your rhubarb divisions. Rhubarb plants thrive in full sun, which means at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Prepare the planting hole by digging a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of the division. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage. Place the division in the hole, ensuring the buds are about 1-2 inches below the soil surface. Backfill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the plant. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to help settle the soil and hydrate the roots. Space the divisions about 3-4 feet apart to allow them plenty of room to grow. Rhubarb plants can get quite large, so it’s important to give them adequate space. After planting, you may want to add a layer of mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Proper planting is crucial for the success of your divisions, so take the time to prepare the soil and position the plants correctly.

Post-Division Care for Rhubarb Plants

After dividing and replanting your rhubarb plants, proper care is essential to ensure their successful establishment and future growth. This involves regular watering, fertilization, and monitoring for pests and diseases. Think of it as nursing your plants back to health after surgery—they need extra attention and care to recover and thrive. We’ll cover all the key aspects of post-division care, so you can provide your rhubarb with the best possible environment to flourish. So, let's dive into the specifics of how to care for your newly divided rhubarb!

Watering

Consistent watering is crucial for newly divided rhubarb plants. Water thoroughly after planting and continue to water regularly, especially during dry periods. The goal is to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Waterlogged soil can lead to root rot, which can be detrimental to the plant’s health. Check the soil moisture by sticking your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. Newly divided plants need more frequent watering than established plants, as their root systems are still developing. Water deeply, allowing the water to soak into the soil and reach the roots. Avoid frequent, shallow watering, as this can encourage shallow root growth, making the plant more susceptible to drought stress. Mulching around the plants can help to retain moisture in the soil and reduce the need for frequent watering. As the plants become established, you can gradually reduce the frequency of watering, but continue to monitor the soil moisture and water as needed. Proper watering is essential for the survival and growth of your newly divided rhubarb, so pay close attention to their moisture needs.

Fertilizing

Fertilizing rhubarb plants after division helps to provide the nutrients they need to establish and grow. Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost in the spring to encourage healthy growth. A fertilizer with a higher phosphorus content can help to promote root development, which is particularly important for newly divided plants. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for application rates and timing. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of root development. Organic fertilizers, such as compost or well-rotted manure, are excellent options for rhubarb plants. They provide a slow-release source of nutrients and also improve the soil structure. Spread a layer of compost around the base of the plants in the spring to provide a boost of nutrients. You can also side-dress the plants with compost or fertilizer during the growing season, if needed. Monitor the plants for signs of nutrient deficiencies, such as yellowing leaves, and adjust your fertilization practices accordingly. Regular fertilization will help your rhubarb plants to thrive and produce a bountiful harvest.

Pest and Disease Control

Monitor your rhubarb plants regularly for signs of pests or diseases. Common rhubarb pests include slugs, snails, and rhubarb curculio. Slugs and snails can be controlled by handpicking them off the plants or using slug bait. Rhubarb curculio is a beetle that can damage the stalks and leaves. Remove any infested stalks and leaves and consider using an insecticide if the infestation is severe. Common rhubarb diseases include crown rot and leaf spot. Crown rot is a fungal disease that can cause the crown to rot and the plant to die. Prevent crown rot by ensuring good drainage and avoiding overwatering. Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes spots on the leaves. Remove any infected leaves and consider using a fungicide if the infection is severe. Good air circulation around the plants can help to prevent fungal diseases. Regularly inspect your plants and take action at the first sign of a problem. Early detection and treatment can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems. A healthy, vigorous plant is less susceptible to pests and diseases, so proper care and maintenance are essential.

Harvesting

It's crucial to avoid harvesting rhubarb stalks from newly divided plants during the first year after division. This allows the plants to focus their energy on establishing a strong root system and developing healthy crowns. Harvesting too early can weaken the plants and reduce their long-term productivity. Be patient and allow the plants to grow undisturbed for the first year. In the second year, you can begin to harvest a few stalks, but avoid taking more than one-third of the total stalks. In subsequent years, you can harvest more heavily, but always leave some stalks on the plant to maintain its vigor. To harvest rhubarb stalks, grasp the stalk near the base and gently pull and twist. The stalk should snap away from the crown easily. Avoid cutting the stalks, as this can leave a stub that can rot and attract pests. Only harvest stalks that are at least 12 inches long and have a good color. Harvesting rhubarb is a rewarding part of gardening, but it’s important to do it responsibly to ensure the health and longevity of your plants. Patience in the first year will pay off with a more abundant harvest in the years to come.

By following this comprehensive guide, you'll be well-equipped to successfully divide your rhubarb plants and enjoy a bountiful harvest for years to come. Happy gardening, guys!