The Ultimate Guide to Victoria Rhubarb Care

Are you looking for a plant that is easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance? Look no further than Victoria rhubarb! This hardy perennial plant is native to England and has been grown for its edible stalks for hundreds of years. In this article, we will provide you with everything you need to know about Victoria rhubarb care.

Choosing the Right Location

The first step in successfully growing Victoria rhubarb is choosing the right location. Rhubarb prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It also needs plenty of sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. When selecting a location, keep in mind that rhubarb plants can grow up to 3 feet tall and wide, so make sure there is enough space for them to spread out.

Before planting, prepare the soil by adding compost or aged manure to enrich it. If your soil is clay-like, mix in some sand to improve drainage.

Planting Time

The best time to plant Victoria rhubarb is in early spring, as soon as the ground is workable. You can also plant in the fall, but make sure to do so at least 6 weeks before the ground freezes to allow the roots to establish.

To plant, dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball and add a handful of bone meal to the bottom of the hole. Place the plant in the hole, making sure the crown (where the shoots emerge) is level with the soil surface. Fill the hole with soil and water thoroughly.

Watering and Fertilizing

Rhubarb plants require regular watering, especially during dry periods. However, be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. A good rule of thumb is to water deeply once a week rather than shallowly more often.

As for fertilization, rhubarb plants benefit from a yearly application of compost or well-aged manure in the fall. Avoid using high nitrogen fertilizers, as these can encourage leaf growth at the expense of stalks.

Maintenance

Victoria rhubarb is a low-maintenance plant, but there are a few things you can do to ensure its health and longevity. First, remove any flower stalks that appear, as these signal that the plant is diverting energy away from producing stalks. Second, mulch around the base of the plant to suppress weeds and retain moisture. Finally, divide the plant every few years to prevent overcrowding and maintain vigor.

Harvesting Stalks

One of the main reasons to grow Victoria rhubarb is for its delicious stalks, which can be used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes. To harvest, wait until the stalks are at least 10 inches long and then grab them at the base and gently twist and pull. Do not cut the stalks, as this can damage the plant. Harvesting should stop by mid-summer to allow the plant to store energy for next year's growth.

Pests and Diseases

Victoria rhubarb is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but there are a few issues to watch out for. The most common pest is the rhubarb curculio, a small beetle that lays its eggs in the stalks, causing them to become hollow and unusable. To prevent this, cover the plant with row covers during the egg-laying period or spray with neem oil. As for diseases, rhubarb can be susceptible to crown rot if the soil is too wet or poorly drained. To avoid this, make sure to plant in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.

A healthy Victoria rhubarb plant

With a little bit of care, Victoria rhubarb can provide you with delicious stalks for many years to come. Remember to choose a sunny, well-drained location, water and fertilize regularly, and harvest at the right time. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy the unique flavor of this English favorite.

Victoria Rhubarb, Perennial Plants, Edible Stalks, Gardening Tips, Plant Care