Rhubarb is a beautiful plant, but it’s not always easy to grow. Rhubarb has many needs that must be met in order for it to thrive and produce deliciously tart stalks. The most important of these needs is the right fertilizer. This article will teach you about what nutrients rhubarb can use and how much of each nutrient to give your plants.
Rhubarb has a rich history, dating back to the Roman Empire
The Romans used rhubarb for its medicinal properties as well as its ornamental appeal. In the 17th century, English gardeners grew it in heated greenhouses year-round so they would not have to wait for colder months to harvest this beautiful plant.
Why is it important to fertilize your rhubarb plants?
It is important to fertilize your rhubarb plants for a couple of reasons. One, the plant needs additional nutrients in order to grow and produce healthy stalks with delicious tart fruit. Two, rhubarb requires more frequent fertilizing than most vegetables do because it grows as an annual instead of biennials like many other veggies.
When should you fertilize rhubarb plants?
Rhubarb plants should be fertilized three to four times per year. In the spring, before new shoots emerge from the ground and again during blooming season (mid-spring or early summer) is a great time for your first two sprays. The third spray will happen in late fall after harvest when rhubarb leaves begin to turn brown and die back.
Types of fertilizer for rhubarb plants
Many fertilizers will work for your rhubarb plants, but we recommend a fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 12-12-12. A mix that includes other elements like calcium or magnesium can also be beneficial to the health of your plant.
How much fertilizer do you need for your plantings
Great question! The amount of fertilizer you need for your plants will depend on the size and type. If you’re using a slow-release pellet, about two pounds per 100 square feet is recommended. For liquid fertilizers, we recommend one gallon per 200 square foot planting area in early spring when new shoots are emerging from the ground.
What are some common problems with fertilizing rhubarb and how can they be avoided
Some common problems with fertilizing rhubarb are plants not growing fast enough and leaves turning a yellowish color. To avoid these issues, make sure you’re using the right fertilizer for your type of plant (i.e., slow-release pellets or liquid), that you follow the timing guidelines listed above.
How to Care for Rhubarb Plants
- Pick the leaves when they are young and tender, but before they become large.
- Cut off about a foot of stem below each leaf at ground level. This will encourage new growth in the springtime and prevent plants from becoming too woody or leggy by the end of summer.
- Mulch thickly
Weed Control and Mulching
Weeds compete for water, nutrients, and sunlight. Weeding often becomes a necessary chore to keep plants healthy.
Mulching helps with weed control by keeping the ground moist and cool during hot summer months. Use annual mulches such as straw or grass clippings in the fall when they are available; other options include shredded leaves, newspaper.
Winter Protection
In areas where the ground freezes and thaws, a thick layer of mulch can protect rhubarb plants from winter damage.