Cultivation

Open-field rhubarb

Rheum rhabarbarum L.

Growing rhubarb in the open field requires careful attention to the planting depth of buds, significant growing space, and a strict harvesting regimen based on the petiole twisting method.

In the reference 6 varieties crop Rhubarb, where this is mentioned in the description.

When planting rhubarb divisions, it is important to place the buds flush with the soil surface or 2–3 cm below, as deep planting inhibits development, while shallow planting leads to rhizome death during winter. Due to the formation of a large leaf rosette, the plant requires significant space, necessitating planting patterns ranging from 1.0×1.0 m to 1.5 m between rows.

Harvesting begins in the second year; petioles should not be cut, but rather twisted from the base of the rosette over a period of 8–10 weeks until August. An essential practice is the removal of flower stalks, which deplete the plant. The crop is highly sensitive to waterlogging; therefore, planting on raised beds is often practiced in heavy soils.

Rhubarb is cultivated in the same location for up to 10–15 years, requiring deep soil preparation and a specific fertilization system involving the application of organic matter every 4–5 years and seasonal split applications of mineral fertilizers. To preserve varietal characteristics, vegetative propagation by rhizome division is preferred.

General information about the subject — on the page Open field.

Sources8

Varieties of Rhubarb mentioned in the description

Selection based on the description text, not on official evaluation: these data are absent from registers. For specific variety details, please refer to its profile.