Rhubarb is a hardy perennial vegetable prized for its tart, edible stalks. Maintaining productivity often requires moving or dividing the plant. Successful relocation depends on precise timing to minimize shock to the root system and ensure the plant thrives. Understanding the plant’s natural life cycle allows a gardener to execute the move efficiently, leading to vigorous growth and consistent yields.
Identifying the Optimal Time for Transplanting
The ideal time to move rhubarb is during its dormancy period, when the plant has ceased active growth and is conserving energy in its root structure. This state significantly reduces transplant shock because the plant is not supporting large, water-demanding foliage. The best windows for this activity are late fall or very early spring.
Late fall, specifically after the first hard frost has killed the foliage, is often preferred, as it allows the root system to begin establishing itself throughout the winter. Alternatively, the move can occur in early spring, just as the soil becomes workable and before the new red buds, or “eyes,” begin significant growth. Moving the crown before the plant invests energy into leaves ensures resources are focused on root regeneration.
Reasons Why Rhubarb Needs Relocation
Rhubarb plants can remain productive for many years, but they often require moving or dividing the crown. Overcrowding is a common issue, causing a mature plant to produce smaller, thinner stalks because the root system has become too dense. Division is necessary when the plant’s center becomes bare and productive stalks are only found around the perimeter.
Productivity often declines after eight to ten years, and dividing the crown can rejuvenate the plant. Relocation may also be required due to a poor original planting site. This includes areas that have become too shady, experience poor drainage leading to root rot, or are needed for other garden uses.
Step-by-Step Guide to Moving and Dividing Rhubarb
If transplanting in the fall, cut back all dead foliage, leaving only a few inches of stalk above the crown. Carefully dig around the perimeter of the rhubarb clump, about a foot away from the center, using a garden fork to minimize root damage. Gently lever the entire root mass, known as the crown, out of the soil, keeping as much of the root rhizomes intact as possible.
Once lifted, the crown is ready for division, which is necessary for rejuvenation and propagation. Use a sharp, clean spade or knife to cut the crown into pieces. Ensure each new section has at least one healthy bud or “eye” and a good portion of the root mass attached. Divisions with multiple eyes (one to three) will establish faster and produce a larger plant more quickly.
Prepare the new planting site by digging a large hole that is wide enough to accommodate the roots without crowding them. Rhubarb performs best in rich, well-draining soil, so mix a generous amount of well-rotted compost or manure into the planting hole. Place the division so the top of the crown, where the buds are located, is just one to two inches below the soil surface. Planting too deeply can delay production and stress the plant. Tamp the soil firmly around the roots to eliminate air pockets and water the crown thoroughly immediately after replanting.
Essential Care After Transplanting
Immediate and consistent watering is the most important factor for success after transplanting. The newly moved crowns need regular moisture, especially during the first growing season, to help the compromised root system establish itself in the new location. Ensure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged, as poor drainage leads to crown rot.
Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or well-rotted compost, around the base of the plant to conserve soil moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid covering the crown itself when mulching, as it should be exposed to the air to prevent rot. Refrain completely from harvesting any stalks during the first full growing season after the move. This patience allows the plant to focus all energy on developing a strong, extensive root system, which is necessary for long-term health and a bountiful harvest in subsequent years.