Rhubarb Companion Gardening Guide

Oleh husselbeeyen May 31, 2023 Post a Comment

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What is Rhubarb?

Rhubarb is a perennial plant that belongs to the Polygonaceae family. It is commonly grown for its edible stalks, which are used in pies, sauces, and jams. The plant can grow up to 2 meters tall and has large, triangular leaves that can reach up to 60 cm in diameter. Rhubarb requires cold temperatures to grow and is usually harvested in the spring and early summer.

The stalks of rhubarb are the only edible part of the plant. They are generally red or green and have a sour taste. Rhubarb is a good source of vitamin C, fiber, and calcium.

How to Plant Rhubarb?

Rhubarb is a hardy plant that can grow in most soil types. It prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal time to plant rhubarb is in the fall or early spring.

To plant rhubarb, follow these steps:

Choose a location that receives full sun or partial shade.
Prepare the soil by tilling it to a depth of at least 30 cm and adding compost or well-rotted manure.
Plant rhubarb crowns (the thick, fleshy root of the plant) in holes that are 60 cm apart and 10-15 cm deep.
Cover the crowns with soil and water them well.
Mulch the area around the plants with straw or leaves to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Rhubarb plants should not be harvested in the first year after planting. Instead, allow the stalks to grow and die back naturally. In the second year, harvest only a few stalks and gradually increase the amount in subsequent years.

Companion Plants for Rhubarb?

Companion planting is the practice of growing different plants together to benefit each other. Rhubarb has a few companion plants that can help it grow better:

Beans: Beans fix nitrogen in the soil, which is essential for the growth of rhubarb.
Garlic: Garlic repels pests and diseases that can harm rhubarb.
Onions: Onions also repel pests and diseases that can harm rhubarb.
Mint: Mint attracts beneficial insects that prey on pests that can harm rhubarb.
Marigolds: Marigolds repel pests and attract beneficial insects that can help rhubarb grow.

It is important to note that some plants can harm rhubarb. Avoid planting rhubarb near:

Brassicas: Brassicas (such as broccoli and cabbage) release compounds that can inhibit the growth of rhubarb.
Nightshades: Nightshades (such as tomatoes and peppers) can attract pests that can harm rhubarb.

Pests and Diseases of Rhubarb?

Rhubarb is generally a hardy plant that is not affected by many pests and diseases. However, there are a few that can harm the plant:

Slugs and Snails: Slugs and snails can eat the leaves of rhubarb, causing damage to the plant. To control them, use slug pellets or set up beer traps.
Crown Rot: Crown rot is a fungal disease that can kill rhubarb plants. To prevent it, avoid planting rhubarb in poorly drained soil and do not overwater the plants.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown spots to appear on the leaves of rhubarb. To prevent it, avoid overhead watering and remove any infected leaves promptly.

Harvesting and Storing Rhubarb?

Rhubarb is usually ready to harvest in the spring and early summer. To harvest rhubarb, follow these steps:

Grasp the stalk at the base and pull it gently to one side.
Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut the stalk at the base if it does not come away easily.
Only harvest stalks that are at least 30 cm long and 2.5 cm thick.

Do not harvest more than one-third of the plant at any one time.

Rhubarb can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To freeze rhubarb, wash and chop the stalks and place them in a freezer bag. Rhubarb can also be canned or made into preserves.

Conclusion

Rhubarb is a hardy plant that is easy to grow and harvest. By following these tips on planting, companion planting, pest and disease control, and harvesting and storing, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of this delicious and nutritious plant.

husselbeeyen

Rhubarb Companion Gardening Guide

Table of Contents:

What is Rhubarb?

How to Plant Rhubarb?

Companion Plants for Rhubarb?

Pests and Diseases of Rhubarb?

Harvesting and Storing Rhubarb?

Conclusion

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