Growing rhubarb in a pot offers several benefits, especially for those with limited garden space or poor soil conditions. It allows for easy mobility, so you can position the plant in a sunny spot or move it indoors during extreme weather. Containers also provide excellent drainage, preventing root rot, and give you control over soil quality, which can be tailored for optimal growth.
In addition to that, growing rhubarb in a pot helps contain its spread, as rhubarb can be invasive when planted directly in the ground. It’s also ideal for extending the growing season, as pots can be brought inside during cold months to protect the plant from frost, giving you fresh rhubarb for a longer period.
Growing Rhubarb in Pots
Rhubarb is a hardy perennial vegetable (often treated as a fruit) that thrives in cool climates and is perfect for growing in pots if you have limited space.
Growing rhubarb in a container allows you to control the soil quality, watering, and temperature, making it easier to enjoy this tangy, versatile plant even if you don’t have a garden. Follow this guide to grow healthy, productive rhubarb in pots!
1. Choosing the Right Container
The first step to growing rhubarb in a pot is selecting an appropriate container.
- Size: Rhubarb plants have large roots, so choose a container that is at least 17-18 inches deep and 20-24 inches wide. This provides enough room for the roots to spread.
- Material: Plastic, ceramic, or terracotta pots all work well. However, plastic pots are lighter and retain moisture better, while terracotta is porous and dries out faster, requiring more frequent watering.
- Drainage: Make sure your pot has adequate drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom and causing root rot. Rhubarb prefers well-draining soil.
2. Selecting the Right Rhubarb Variety
Rhubarb comes in various varieties, but not all are suited to container gardening. Some compact varieties are ideal for pots, including:
- ‘Glaskins Perpetual’ – This variety is known for its hardy nature and ability to continue producing stems throughout the growing season.
- ‘Victoria’ – One of the most popular varieties, it can be grown in containers and yields thick, red stalks.
- ‘Cherry Red’ – A compact variety with deep red stalks, perfect for pots.
3. Preparing the Potting Mix
Rhubarb needs rich, well-draining soil to grow well. A good potting mix is essential for strong growth.
- Soil: Use a high-quality, well-draining potting mix. You can mix it with compost or organic matter to improve fertility.
- pH level: Rhubarb prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0 to 6.8). If your soil is too alkaline, you can add sulfur to adjust the pH.
4. Planting Rhubarb in a Pot
Once you have your pot and soil ready, it’s time to plant.
- Planting depth: Rhubarb plants have large crowns, so ensure the crown is planted 2-3 inches below the soil surface. The crown should not be buried too deep, or it may rot.
- Spacing: If you’re planting more than one rhubarb plant, space them at least 18 inches apart to allow the roots room to grow.
- Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots. Rhubarb needs consistent moisture, but make sure the pot has proper drainage to avoid waterlogging.
5. Positioning the Pot
Rhubarb needs a cool, sunny spot to thrive, even in a pot.
- Sunlight: Choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Full sun is ideal, but rhubarb can tolerate some light shade, especially during the hottest part of the day.
- Temperature: Rhubarb grows best in temperatures between 60°F and 75°F (15°C and 24°C). It can tolerate frost, but be prepared to move the pot indoors or cover it during extreme cold spells if necessary.
6. Caring for Rhubarb in a Pot
Proper care is essential for healthy rhubarb plants, particularly when grown in pots.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Rhubarb needs regular watering, especially in hot weather, but be sure the pot drains properly. Water at the base to avoid wetting the leaves, which can encourage rot.
- Fertilizing: Rhubarb is a heavy feeder and will benefit from regular feeding. Use a balanced fertilizer or organic compost to provide nutrients. Fertilize in early spring when the plant starts growing and again in mid-summer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as too much nitrogen can encourage leaf growth at the expense of stalk production.
- Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Organic mulches like straw or shredded leaves work well.
7. Harvesting Rhubarb
You should avoid harvesting rhubarb in its first year to allow the plant to establish strong roots. In the second year, you can start harvesting small amounts.
- When to harvest: Harvest the stalks once they reach at least 12 inches in length, but be sure to leave a few stalks on the plant to allow it to keep growing.
- How to harvest: Pull the rhubarb stalks by gently twisting them at the base and pulling them away from the crown. Never cut the stalks with scissors or a knife, as this can damage the crown.
- Don’t eat the leaves: Rhubarb leaves contain oxalic acid, which is toxic. Always remove and discard the leaves after harvesting the stalks.
8. Overwintering Rhubarb in a Pot
Rhubarb is hardy and can survive the winter, even in a pot. However, containers are more susceptible to freezing, so it’s important to protect the plant during the colder months.
- In cold climates: If you live in an area with harsh winters, move the pot to a sheltered location, such as a garage or shed. Alternatively, wrap the pot in burlap or bubble wrap to protect the roots from freezing.
- Mulching: Add extra mulch on top of the soil to help insulate the roots from extreme cold.
- Watering in winter: During the winter, water the plant sparingly. If it’s inside a protected area, check occasionally to ensure the soil doesn’t dry out completely.
9. Troubleshooting Common Issues
Growing rhubarb in a pot can come with some challenges. Here are a few common problems and their solutions:
- Yellowing leaves: This can be a sign of nutrient deficiencies (particularly nitrogen). Try adding a balanced fertilizer or compost.
- Small stalks: Rhubarb can produce small stalks if it’s not getting enough sunlight, nutrients, or water. Make sure it’s in a sunny location, and consider adding more compost or fertilizer.
- Pests: Rhubarb is generally pest-resistant, but slugs, aphids, or snails can sometimes appear. Use organic pest control methods like neem oil or hand-picking to remove pests.
10. Repotting Rhubarb
After a few years, the rhubarb plant may outgrow its pot and need repotting.
- When to repot: Repot every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and give the plant more room to grow. Spring is the best time to do this, just before the plant starts to grow actively.
- How to repot: Gently remove the plant from its pot, trim any overly long or damaged roots, and place it in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil.
FAQs
For sure, rhubarb can be successfully grown in pots. Choose a large container (at least 18-24 inches deep) with good drainage to allow the plant to thrive.
Rhubarb can be planted in pots in early spring or fall. If you’re starting from seeds, you may need to start indoors a few months before transplanting. If using crowns (divided parts of an established plant), plant them in early spring after the last frost.
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top 2 inches of soil feel dry. Rhubarb requires more water during hot, dry periods but avoid letting the pot sit in standing water.
Rhubarb is a hardy perennial, but the roots may need extra protection in winter. Move pots to a sheltered location, like a garage or basement, or insulate the pot with burlap or foam to prevent freezing.
In late fall, after the plant goes dormant, cut back any dead or yellowing leaves. Rhubarb doesn’t need a lot of maintenance during the winter, but removing old growth helps to prevent pests and diseases.
Don’t harvest rhubarb in its first year of growth. After the second year, you can start harvesting by cutting the stalks at ground level. Harvest only 1-2 stalks per plant each season to allow it to continue growing.
Rhubarb requires a large container, so a small pot isn’t ideal. Small pots may stunt growth, and the plant won’t produce as well. Choose a large enough container to give it room to develop.
Check if the plant is getting enough sunlight, water, and nutrients. Ensure the pot has good drainage and that the soil is not compacted. If the pot is too small or the plant is overcrowded, consider transplanting to a larger pot.
Yes, rhubarb leaves are toxic to pets, particularly dogs and cats. The leaves contain oxalic acid, which can cause kidney damage and digestive issues. Always remove and dispose of the leaves safely, and keep pets away from them.
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