Arkansas gardeners should time their rhubarb planting to avoid the state’s humid summers and late spring storms. The best time to plant rhubarb in Arkansas is during the early spring, as soon as the soil is workable, typically from mid-February to late March. This timing gives the plants a chance to establish strong roots before the heat sets in.
Rhubarb is a cool-season perennial that thrives in moderate temperatures. In Arkansas, the window for successful planting is narrow because the plant struggles with high humidity and heat. Getting the timing right is the key to a healthy, productive patch.
Best Time To Plant Rhubarb In Arkansas
The ideal planting window for rhubarb in Arkansas runs from mid-February through the end of March. This period allows the crowns to settle in while the soil is still cool and the air temperatures are mild. Planting too late in spring can expose young plants to sudden heat waves that stunt growth.
Fall planting is not recommended for Arkansas. The state’s winters can be unpredictable, with sudden freezes that damage newly set roots. Stick to early spring for the best results.
Why Early Spring Works Best
Rhubarb needs a chilling period to break dormancy, but it also hates soggy, hot soil. Early spring in Arkansas offers cool nights and moderate days. The soil temperature is usually between 40°F and 50°F, which is perfect for root development.
Planting in February or March gives rhubarb about 8 to 10 weeks of cool weather before summer arrives. This head start helps the plant build energy reserves for the following year.
What Happens If You Plant Too Late
If you wait until April or May, the soil warms up quickly. Rhubarb roots may rot in warm, wet ground. The plant might also bolt, sending up flower stalks instead of growing leaves. Bolting reduces the harvest and weakens the plant.
Late planting also means the plant faces Arkansas’s humid summer sooner. High humidity encourages fungal diseases like crown rot and leaf spot. A stressed plant may not survive its first year.
Preparing Your Garden For Rhubarb
Before you plant, choose a spot that gets full sun for at least 6 hours a day. Rhubarb needs sunlight to produce thick stalks. Partial shade leads to leggy, weak growth.
Soil preparation is critical. Rhubarb prefers well-drained, loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Arkansas clay soils can be heavy, so amend them with compost or aged manure.
Step-By-Step Soil Prep
- Test your soil pH. Add lime if it’s below 6.0, or sulfur if it’s above 6.8.
- Dig a hole 12 inches deep and 18 inches wide for each crown.
- Mix the removed soil with 2 to 3 inches of compost or well-rotted manure.
- Fill the hole back in partially, forming a small mound in the center.
- Place the crown on the mound with the buds facing up, about 2 inches below the soil surface.
- Cover with soil and water thoroughly.
Space plants 3 to 4 feet apart. Rhubarb grows large, and crowded plants compete for nutrients. Good air circulation also reduces disease risk.
Choosing The Right Variety
Not all rhubarb varieties perform well in Arkansas. Look for heat-tolerant types that resist bolting. Here are some good options:
- Victoria: A classic variety that handles heat reasonably well.
- Canada Red: Produces red stalks and is more tolerant of warm conditions.
- Crimson Red: Similar to Canada Red, with good flavor and color.
- Valentine: A newer variety bred for southern gardens.
Avoid varieties like Strawberry or Chipman, which are better suited for cooler northern climates. They may struggle in Arkansas’s heat.
Planting Rhubarb Crowns Correctly
You can buy rhubarb crowns from nurseries or online. Crowns are dormant roots with buds. They are easier to plant than seeds and give you a head start.
Plant crowns as soon as you get them. If you must store them, keep them in a cool, dark place like a refrigerator. Do not let them dry out.
Planting Depth And Spacing
The most common mistake is planting crowns too deep. The buds should be just below the soil surface, about 1 to 2 inches deep. Deep planting can cause the crown to rot.
Spacing matters. Give each plant at least 3 feet of room. Rhubarb can spread 4 feet wide in good conditions. Crowded plants produce thinner stalks.
Watering After Planting
Water the crowns immediately after planting. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. In Arkansas, spring rains often provide enough moisture, but check the soil weekly.
Mulch around the plants with straw or wood chips. Mulch keeps the soil cool, retains moisture, and suppresses weeds. Leave a small gap around the crown to prevent rot.
Caring For Rhubarb Through Arkansas Seasons
Rhubarb needs consistent care through its first year. Do not harvest any stalks during the first growing season. Let the plant focus on root development.
In the second year, you can harvest lightly. Take only a few stalks from each plant. By the third year, you can harvest fully.
Summer Heat Management
Arkansas summers are tough on rhubarb. The plant may go dormant when temperatures exceed 85°F. This is normal. Do not panic if the leaves wilt or die back.
To help the plant survive, keep the soil mulched. Water deeply once a week during dry spells. Shade cloth can protect plants from intense afternoon sun.
Fall And Winter Care
In fall, the leaves die back naturally. Cut them off at ground level after the first frost. Do not leave dead leaves on the soil, as they can harbor diseases.
Apply a 2-inch layer of compost or aged manure in late fall. This feeds the roots over winter. In colder parts of Arkansas, add a layer of straw for insulation.
Harvesting Rhubarb In Arkansas
You can start harvesting in the second year. Wait until the stalks are at least 12 inches long. Pull them gently from the base, twisting slightly.
Never cut the stalks with a knife. Cutting leaves stubs that can rot. Always pull the entire stalk from the crown.
When To Stop Harvesting
Stop harvesting by early June in Arkansas. Continued harvesting during hot weather weakens the plant. Let the remaining stalks grow to rebuild energy for next year.
If the plant sends up a flower stalk, remove it immediately. Flowering diverts energy from the roots. Cut the stalk at the base.
Common Harvest Mistakes
- Harvesting too many stalks at once. Leave at least half the stalks on the plant.
- Harvesting in the first year. This stunts growth and reduces future yields.
- Eating the leaves. Rhubarb leaves are toxic due to oxalic acid. Only eat the stalks.
Dealing With Pests And Diseases
Rhubarb is generally low-maintenance, but Arkansas’s humid climate can cause problems. Watch for these issues:
Common Pests
- Rhubarb curculio: A small beetle that bores into stalks. Remove affected stalks and destroy them.
- Slugs and snails: They chew holes in leaves. Use beer traps or diatomaceous earth.
- Aphids: They suck sap from leaves. Spray with a strong stream of water or insecticidal soap.
Fungal Diseases
- Crown rot: Caused by wet soil. Improve drainage and avoid overwatering.
- Leaf spot: Brown spots on leaves. Remove infected leaves and improve air circulation.
- Powdery mildew: White coating on leaves. Use a baking soda spray (1 teaspoon per quart of water).
Prevent diseases by spacing plants properly and watering at the base, not on the leaves. Remove any dead plant material in fall.
Dividing Rhubarb Plants
Every 4 to 5 years, rhubarb plants become overcrowded. Dividing them rejuvenates the patch. Do this in early spring before new growth starts.
How To Divide Rhubarb
- Dig up the entire crown with a shovel.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the crown into sections. Each section should have at least one bud and a good root system.
- Discard any old, woody parts of the crown.
- Replant the divisions at the same depth as the original plant.
- Water well and mulch.
Dividing in Arkansas is best done in February or March. This gives the new divisions time to establish before summer heat.
Companion Planting For Rhubarb
Rhubarb grows well with certain plants. Good companions include:
- Strawberries: They have similar soil needs and do not compete heavily.
- Beans: They fix nitrogen in the soil, which benefits rhubarb.
- Garlic: It repels pests like aphids and slugs.
Avoid planting rhubarb near:
- Potatoes: They compete for nutrients and can spread blight.
- Tomatoes: They attract similar pests and diseases.
- Melons: They require more water than rhubarb likes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Plant Rhubarb In The Fall In Arkansas?
Fall planting is risky in Arkansas. The plants may not establish before winter freezes. Early spring is the safest time.
How Long Does Rhubarb Take To Grow In Arkansas?
From planting a crown, you can expect a light harvest in the second year. Full harvests start in the third year.
What Is The Best Variety Of Rhubarb For Arkansas?
Canada Red and Victoria are reliable choices. They handle heat better than many other varieties.
Should I Fertilize Rhubarb In Arkansas?
Yes, apply a balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10 in early spring. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which encourage leaf growth over root development.
Can Rhubarb Grow In Containers In Arkansas?
Yes, but use a large container at least 18 inches deep and wide. Container plants need more frequent watering and may need shade in summer.
Final Tips For Success
Planting rhubarb in Arkansas is about timing and patience. Stick to early spring, prepare your soil well, and give the plant time to establish. Avoid the temptation to harvest too soon.
Mulch heavily to keep roots cool during summer. Water consistently but do not overwater. Remove flower stalks as soon as they appear.
With proper care, your rhubarb patch can produce for 10 years or more. The key is working with Arkansas’s climate, not against it. Start in February or March, and you will be rewarded with tart, delicious stalks for pies and sauces.
Remember that rhubarb is a long-term investment. The first year is all about root growth. Be patient, and by year three, you will have a bountiful harvest every spring.
If you have heavy clay soil, consider raised beds. They improve drainage and warm up faster in spring. Raised beds also make it easier to control soil pH and nutrients.
Finally, keep a garden journal. Note when you planted, when the first stalks appeared, and how the plant handled summer heat. This information will help you adjust your timing in future years.
Arkansas gardeners have successfully grown rhubarb for generations. With the right timing and care, you can too. Start planning now for a February planting, and enjoy homegrown rhubarb for years to come.