rhubarb

Rhubarb plants should be watered deeply and infrequently. In spring, when the leaves are just starting to grow, provide about an inch of water per week. As the plant matures and leaves become fuller and stems thicken, water sparingly, just enough to prevent the soil from drying out completely. When the leaves begin to yellow and die back in late summer/early fall, stop watering. Rhubarb will go dormant until the following spring.

Rhubarb requires daily access to sunlight for optimal growth and production. It should ideally receive 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day, which can be in the form of either direct sunlight or bright indirect light indoors. While rhubarb can tolerate some shade, the growth and harvest will likely be reduced when not given the proper amount of sunlight.

Rhubarb should be pruned in spring, after new growth has begun. Remove all of the dead leaves and any shoots that are more than 2 years old. Cut these shoots to the ground level. Cut back any shoots that are longer than 24 inches to 16-20 inches in length. This will encourage healthy, new growth. Prune a third of the rhubarb crown each spring, every 2 to 3 years. This will help to ensure that your rhubarb stays fresh and fruitful.