Welcome to Lawnmowing99! Today, we’re diving into one of my favorite perennial vegetables: rhubarb. Growing rhubarb from seed is truly rewarding, though I’ll be honest – it can require some patience and persistence. Over the years, I’ve learned a lot about the ins and outs of growing rhubarb from seed, including plenty of successes and a few lessons from trial and error along the way. If you’re looking for a new gardening challenge, I’m excited to share my own experiences and guide you through this step-by-step information on growing rhubarb from seed.
Getting Started: Choosing Rhubarb Seeds
When I first started, I didn’t realize there were so many varieties of rhubarb. I quickly learned that some types are better suited to certain climates, so take a moment to research which varieties will thrive in your area. Personally, I’ve had success with varieties like Victoria and Glaskin’s Perpetual – both produce vibrant red stalks and are relatively easy to manage from seed.
Choosing good-quality seeds is key to a successful start. Look for seeds from a reliable supplier, and check the harvest dates, as older seeds may have reduced germination rates. Fresh seeds are a bit of an investment, but they’ll give you the best chances of success.
Step 1: Germinating the Seeds
Starting rhubarb seeds indoors is the first and most crucial step. Since rhubarb can take a while to establish, I recommend starting the seeds indoors about 8-10 weeks before your last frost date. The first time I tried growing rhubarb from seed, I underestimated how long they’d need to get established, so I planted too late and ended up with small seedlings. Learning from that, I now start them as early as possible.
To germinate the seeds, soak them overnight in warm water to help soften the outer shell, making it easier for the seedlings to emerge. Then, plant the seeds about half an inch deep in seed trays filled with quality seed-starting mix. I like to keep the soil consistently moist – not waterlogged – and provide a warm, bright environment. In about 10-14 days, you should start seeing those little green shoots breaking through.
Step 2: Transplanting Seedlings to Bigger Pots
Once the seedlings have a couple of true leaves, it’s time to move them to slightly larger pots. This stage is always exciting because it means the seedlings are on their way to becoming healthy plants. I transplant them carefully to avoid damaging the fragile roots. One year, I was a bit rough and lost a few seedlings, so now I always take extra care.
I usually transplant my rhubarb seedlings into 4-inch pots with well-draining potting mix, giving each one enough space to develop. At this stage, keeping them in bright, indirect light is crucial, and I water them consistently. Strong, healthy seedlings are key to successfully growing rhubarb from seed, so a little extra care during this step goes a long way.
Step 3: Hardening Off the Seedlings
After weeks of nurturing these little plants indoors, it’s time to prepare them for the great outdoors! Hardening off rhubarb seedlings is essential, especially since sudden exposure to direct sunlight and outdoor conditions can shock them. I remember my first attempt at growing rhubarb from seed – I skipped this step, and my poor seedlings didn’t survive the transition.
To harden them off, I start by placing them outside for just a couple of hours each day, gradually increasing the time over a week or two. This helps them adjust to the sunlight, wind, and fluctuating temperatures. It’s a small effort that significantly improves their resilience and chances of thriving in the garden.
Step 4: Planting the Seedlings in the Garden
When the seedlings are about 10-12 inches tall and all risk of frost has passed, it’s time to transplant them to their permanent home. Rhubarb plants need a spacious spot with good drainage and plenty of sunlight – they can grow quite large, so plan for a permanent location where they won’t be disturbed.
When I plant rhubarb in the garden, I make sure to space the plants about three feet apart, as they will eventually spread out. I dig a hole large enough to accommodate the root system, gently place the seedling in, and fill it in with rich compost. Watering well at this stage helps them settle in. Once planted, I add a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. It’s all about creating a nurturing environment for your rhubarb from the start!
Step 5: Caring for Your Rhubarb Plants
Once your rhubarb is in the ground, it’s relatively low-maintenance. That said, the first year requires a bit of patience, as the plants are focusing on root development. I remember feeling disappointed when my first rhubarb plants didn’t yield much in the initial year – but trust me, the wait is worth it.
During the first season, avoid harvesting any stalks to allow the plants to strengthen. I water my rhubarb consistently, especially during dry spells, and every spring, I like to top-dress with compost to give them a nutrient boost. Rhubarb also appreciates a slow-release fertilizer, which I usually apply in early spring and mid-summer. Over the years, I’ve found that these small efforts lead to a more productive and resilient plant.
Step 6: Harvesting Rhubarb Stalks
After about two years, you’ll start seeing those iconic red stalks mature, and you can finally begin to harvest! When harvesting rhubarb, I make sure to only take a few stalks from each plant in the beginning to avoid stressing it out. Simply twist and pull the stalk near the base – cutting too close to the plant can cause damage.
One thing I love about growing rhubarb from seed is how rewarding the harvest feels after all that initial patience. Freshly picked rhubarb has a unique flavor, perfect for pies, jams, and even savory dishes. And remember, only the stalks are edible – the leaves contain oxalic acid and are toxic, so be sure to discard them.
Step 7: Maintaining Your Rhubarb Patch
Once your rhubarb plants are established, they’ll keep producing for years to come. I love that rhubarb is a perennial; with the right care, it can thrive for decades! Each year, I make it a point to clear away any dead leaves in the fall and add a fresh layer of compost in the spring.
Dividing mature plants every 5-7 years also helps keep them productive. I was a bit hesitant the first time I tried dividing my rhubarb, but it’s quite simple. I carefully dig up the plant, separate the crowns with a sharp spade, and replant them. This gives me even more rhubarb plants to enjoy and share with fellow gardeners!
Embracing the Challenges and Rewards
Growing rhubarb from seed has been one of my most rewarding gardening experiences. There’s something truly satisfying about nurturing a plant from its tiniest stage and watching it mature over the years. Sure, there were challenges along the way – like the time I lost a whole batch of seedlings to a sudden cold snap. But these experiences have taught me so much about patience and persistence.
With rhubarb, the rewards far outweigh the challenges. Once established, it’s a hardy, long-lived plant that provides an abundance of delicious stalks every season. Growing rhubarb from seed is a journey, but if you’re willing to put in the time and care, you’ll be rewarded with a plant that just keeps on giving.
Thank you for tuning in to Lawnmowing99 for this step-by-step information on growing rhubarb from seed! If you enjoyed learning about my journey with rhubarb, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more gardening tips and advice. Here’s to a bountiful rhubarb harvest and many delicious dishes ahead!