Best Time To Plant Rhubarb In Tennessee

Tennessee’s moderate climate offers two ideal windows for planting rhubarb: early spring and early fall. Knowing the best time to plant rhubarb in tennessee can mean the difference between a thriving patch and a disappointing harvest. This guide will walk you through exactly when and how to get your rhubarb off to a strong start in the Volunteer State.

Rhubarb is a cool-season perennial that needs a period of winter chill to produce well. Tennessee’s USDA hardiness zones range from 5b in the east to 8a in the southwest, so timing matters. Let’s break down the two planting windows and how to choose the right one for your garden.

The absolute best time to plant rhubarb in tennessee is early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked. This usually falls between mid-March and early April, depending on your location. For gardeners in the eastern mountains, aim for late March to early April. In middle and western Tennessee, you can plant as early as mid-March.

Early fall is the second best window, typically from late September through October. This gives the roots time to establish before winter dormancy. Fall planting works well if you missed the spring window or want to give your plants a head start for the next season.

Why Spring Planting Works Best

Spring planting allows rhubarb crowns to settle in during cool, moist weather. The soil is warming up, but it’s not yet hot. Rhubarb roots prefer soil temperatures between 40°F and 50°F for initial growth. Tennessee’s spring temperatures are ideal for this.

You’ll see new growth within a few weeks. By summer, the plants will be well-established and ready to handle heat. Spring-planted rhubarb can often be lightly harvested the following year, though full harvests come in year two.

Fall Planting Considerations

Fall planting works if you plant at least six weeks before the first hard frost. In Tennessee, that means planting by mid-October in most areas. The soil is still warm from summer, which encourages root growth. The cooler air temperatures reduce stress on the plant.

One risk with fall planting is that a sudden cold snap can damage young roots. Mulch heavily after planting to insulate the soil. Use straw, shredded leaves, or wood chips to a depth of 4 to 6 inches.

Understanding Tennessee’s Climate Zones

Tennessee spans three main USDA hardiness zones: 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, and 7b. Some areas in the southwest reach zone 8a. Your exact location determines the precise planting dates.

East Tennessee (zones 5b-6b): Spring planting from late March to mid-April. Fall planting by early October.
Middle Tennessee (zones 6b-7a): Spring planting from mid-March to early April. Fall planting by mid-October.
West Tennessee (zones 7a-8a): Spring planting from early to mid-March. Fall planting by late October.

Check your specific zone using the USDA map. Local extension offices can provide more precise advice for your county. The University of Tennessee Extension is an excellent resource for Tennessee gardeners.

Microclimates Matter

Your garden’s microclimate can shift planting dates by a week or two. South-facing slopes warm up faster in spring. Low-lying areas may stay cooler longer. Urban gardens in cities like Nashville or Memphis tend to be warmer than rural areas.

Observe your garden’s frost dates. The average last spring frost in Tennessee ranges from late March in the west to mid-April in the east. The first fall frost comes between mid-October in the east and early November in the west.

Preparing Your Rhubarb Bed

Rhubarb is a long-lived perennial that can produce for 10 to 15 years. Proper site preparation is essential. Choose a spot with full sun, though rhubarb tolerates light shade. The soil must be well-draining and rich in organic matter.

Test your soil pH. Rhubarb prefers a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Add lime if your soil is too acidic.
Amend the soil. Work in 2 to 4 inches of compost or well-rotted manure. This improves drainage and fertility.
Remove all weeds. Perennial weeds like bermudagrass or quackgrass will compete with rhubarb for years.
Dig a wide hole. Make it about 18 inches wide and 12 inches deep. Space plants 3 to 4 feet apart.

Rhubarb crowns should be planted with the buds 1 to 2 inches below the soil surface. In heavier clay soils, plant slightly shallower. In sandy soils, plant a bit deeper. Water thoroughly after planting.

Choosing Rhubarb Varieties For Tennessee

Not all rhubarb varieties perform equally in Tennessee’s climate. Some are better suited to the heat and humidity of the South. Here are top choices for Tennessee gardens:

Victoria: A classic variety that does well in most Tennessee zones. It’s reliable and produces thick, tender stalks.
Canada Red: Known for its deep red color and sweet flavor. It handles heat better than many red varieties.
Crimson Red: Another good red variety with excellent flavor. It’s productive in warmer climates.
Valentine: A newer variety bred for heat tolerance. It produces bright red stalks and resists bolting.

Avoid varieties like ‘Glaskins Perpetual’ which are better suited to cooler northern climates. Stick with varieties proven in southern gardens.

Planting Rhubarb In Spring

Spring planting is straightforward if you follow these steps. Start by purchasing dormant crowns from a reputable nursery. Avoid buying potted plants that have already started growing, as they may struggle with transplant shock.

Soak the crowns in water for 1 to 2 hours before planting. This rehydrates the roots.
Dig the hole as described above. Place the crown in the center with buds facing up.
Backfill with soil and firm gently. Water well to settle the soil.
Mulch lightly with straw or shredded leaves to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Water your newly planted rhubarb once a week if there’s no rain. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. In Tennessee’s spring, you may not need to water much if rainfall is adequate.

Spring Planting Timeline

Here’s a week-by-week guide for spring planting in Tennessee:

Mid-March: Prepare your bed and purchase crowns. Start soaking them 24 hours before planting.
Late March: Plant crowns in middle and western Tennessee. Apply a balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10.
Early April: Plant in eastern Tennessee. Continue watering as needed.
Mid-April: Watch for new shoots. Remove any flower stalks that appear to direct energy to root growth.

If you plant too early and a late frost threatens, cover young shoots with a frost blanket or old sheet. Rhubarb is fairly frost-tolerant, but tender new growth can be damaged.

Planting Rhubarb In Fall

Fall planting requires a bit more planning but can be very successful. The key is timing. Plant too late and the roots won’t establish before winter. Plant too early and the heat may stress the young plants.

Choose a planting date at least six weeks before your average first frost date. For most of Tennessee, that’s late September to mid-October.
Prepare the bed as you would for spring planting. Add compost and ensure good drainage.
Plant the crowns at the same depth as spring planting. Water thoroughly.
Mulch heavily after planting. Apply 4 to 6 inches of straw, shredded leaves, or wood chips.

Fall-planted rhubarb will not produce any harvest the following spring. Let it grow undisturbed for the first year. You can begin light harvesting in the second year.

Fall Planting Risks

The main risk with fall planting is that a sudden hard freeze can heave the soil and damage roots. Mulching helps prevent this. Another risk is that warm fall weather can encourage new growth that gets killed by frost.

If you live in a colder part of Tennessee, like the Cumberland Plateau or the Smoky Mountains, spring planting is safer. Fall planting is best for gardeners in zones 7a and warmer.

Caring For Newly Planted Rhubarb

Whether you plant in spring or fall, young rhubarb needs consistent care. The first year is all about establishing a strong root system. Do not harvest any stalks in the first year.

Water regularly during dry spells. Rhubarb needs about 1 inch of water per week.
Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers that promote leaf growth over root development.
Remove flower stalks as soon as they appear. Flowering diverts energy from root and stalk production.
Weed regularly to reduce competition. Mulch helps suppress weeds.

In Tennessee’s hot summers, rhubarb may go dormant. This is normal. The leaves may die back, but the roots are alive. Continue watering during dry periods to keep the roots healthy.

Mulching Tips For Tennessee

Mulch is crucial for rhubarb in Tennessee. It keeps the soil cool in summer and protects roots in winter. Use organic mulches that break down and improve soil structure.

Straw: Light and easy to apply. Good for both summer and winter mulch.
Shredded leaves: Free and readily available. They decompose slowly and add nutrients.
Wood chips: Best for pathways between plants. They last longer but don’t add much organic matter.

Avoid using fresh manure as mulch. It can burn the roots and introduce weed seeds. Composted manure is fine.

Harvesting Rhubarb In Tennessee

Patience pays off with rhubarb. Do not harvest any stalks in the first year after planting. In the second year, you can take a few stalks from each plant. By the third year, you can harvest fully.

The harvest season in Tennessee runs from April through June. Stalks are ready when they are 12 to 18 inches long and firm. Pull them gently from the base, twisting slightly. Do not cut them, as the remaining stub can rot.

Year 1: No harvest. Let the plant establish.
Year 2: Harvest 3 to 4 stalks per plant, leaving at least half the stalks.
Year 3 and beyond: Harvest up to two-thirds of the stalks per plant.

Stop harvesting by mid-July to allow the plant to store energy for next year. In Tennessee’s heat, rhubarb quality declines after June anyway.

Dealing With Pests And Diseases

Rhubarb is generally pest-free in Tennessee, but a few issues can arise. The most common is crown rot, caused by poorly drained soil. Prevent this by planting in raised beds or amending heavy clay.

Slugs and snails: Hand-pick them or use diatomaceous earth around the plants.
Rhubarb curculio: A weevil that attacks stalks. Remove and destroy affected stalks.
Leaf spot: A fungal disease that appears as brown spots. Remove infected leaves and improve air circulation.

Most problems are preventable with good cultural practices. Proper spacing, well-drained soil, and regular cleaning of dead leaves keep your rhubarb healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I plant rhubarb in summer in Tennessee?

Summer planting is not recommended. The heat stresses young plants, and they struggle to establish. Stick with early spring or early fall for best results.

How long does rhubarb take to grow in Tennessee?

From planting, you can expect a small harvest in the second year. Full production comes in the third year. Each plant can produce for 10 to 15 years with proper care.

Do I need to chill rhubarb crowns before planting in Tennessee?

No. Dormant crowns from nurseries have already been chilled. If you buy potted plants, they don’t need additional chilling. Tennessee’s natural winter chill is sufficient.

What is the best variety of rhubarb for Tennessee’s heat?

Victoria and Canada Red are top choices. They tolerate heat better than many varieties. Crimson Red and Valentine are also good options for southern gardens.

Can I grow rhubarb from seed in Tennessee?

Yes, but it takes longer. Seeds need stratification and may not come true to type. Crowns are easier and more reliable for Tennessee gardeners.

Final Tips For Success

Rhubarb is a rewarding perennial that provides years of harvests. The key is getting the timing right. Remember, the best time to plant rhubarb in tennessee is early spring, with early fall as a backup option.

Prepare your soil well, choose the right variety, and be patient in the first year. With minimal care, your rhubarb patch will thrive in Tennessee’s climate. Enjoy your homegrown stalks in pies, jams, and sauces for years to come.

For more detailed advice, contact your local county extension office. They can provide specific recommendations for your area. Happy planting!