
Ashleigh Smith

Rhubarb is one plant that many people have had at least once is one plant that many people have had at least once, thanks to their grandmothers. But did you know it has a wide variety of uses? You can add it to anything from a drink to a dessert, salad, sauces, salsas, and cocktails. While my grandmother's strawberry rhubarb pie was delicious, I have come to like rhubarb in many other things.
Unlike many plants in your garden, rhubarb is a perennial that comes back year after year. It also does well in climates that experience a dormant period. When planning your garden, select a location where the rhubarb can be left with minimal disruption as you prepare your garden each spring.
To plant, select a full sun location with well-draining soil. After planting rhubarb, wait 1-2 years to harvest to allow your plant to become well-established. You can expect your rhubarb to reach about 3 feet in size. To promote healthy growth, plan on digging or dividing your plants every 3-4 years to encourage more growth.
How to Harvest Rhubarb:
To harvest rhubarb, simply cut, or pull and twist the red stalks rising from the soil. Immediately use a knife to remove the leaves of your harvested stalks. The leaves of rhubarb are not edible as they are toxic with a natural irritating chemical. If you will not use the stalks immediately, wrap them in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate them. For long-term storage, cut into sections and freeze in an airtight bag. This method will last about a year.
About the Author

I'm Ashleigh Smith, a native to Northern Utah. I first gained a love of gardening with my grandmother as I helped her each summer. I decided to make a career of it and have recently graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Horticulture from Brigham Young University - Idaho. My studies have focused on plant production while I also have experience in Nursery & Garden Center Operations.
Our Recommended Picks
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
0 Comments
No Comments yet! Be the first to start a conversation
Further Reading
Seed Inoculant Guide: Benefits for Legumes and Soil Health
Written By Lara Wadsworth It is common knowledge these days that healthy soil is critical for healthy plants. While Mother Nature is very good at taking care of her own, yet if you have gardened or farmed for any length of time, you know that sometimes...
Ashleigh Smith
2025-09-164 min read0Improve Your Cardiovascular Health with Microgreens
Written By Lara Wadsworth Heart disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide. This deadly disease is sweeping across America at an alarming rate. However, much of it ties back to lifestyle factors we can control, such as diet and exercise. Few ...
Ashleigh Smith
2025-09-166 min read0September Planting Guide By Zone
Written By Lara Wadsworth September gardening brings cooler air, shifting light, and new opportunities for planting and harvesting. Whether you’re in Zone 3 racing frost or Zone 10 just starting winter crops, here’s what to plant this month. Understand...
Ashleigh Smith
2025-09-0310 min read0Microgreens Grow Lights Guide: Best Options for Beginners & Pros
Written By Lara Wadsworth Microgreens are one of the easiest and most rewarding indoor crops to grow. They are easily grown by anyone in any situation, and they are absolutely packed with nutrition and flavor. You can harvest them in 2 weeks or less, w...
Ashleigh Smith
2025-09-037 min read1