Growing Rhubarb from Seed: How to Plant Rhubarb Seed Successfully

Rhubarb, with its vibrant stalks and tangy flavor, is a beloved ingredient in pies, crumbles, and jams. But did you know that you can grow your own rhubarb from seed? While it takes more time and patience than starting with a crown, the process is rewarding and allows you to cultivate a unique variety of this versatile plant. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, from seed selection to harvest, to help you successfully plant rhubarb seed and enjoy the fruits (or rather, stalks) of your labor.

Choosing the Right Rhubarb Seed

The first step in your rhubarb journey is selecting the right seed. Consider these factors:
Variety: Rhubarb varieties differ in their stalk color, flavor, and size. Some popular choices include:

• Crimson Red: Known for its bright red stalks and tart flavor.
• Victoria: Offers a balance of sweetness and tartness, with pink-red stalks.
• Champagne: Produces large, pale-green stalks with a mild flavor.

Source: Choose seeds from reputable sources like garden centers, online retailers, or seed banks. Ensure they are fresh and have a high germination rate.
Organic vs. Non-Organic: Opt for organic seeds if you prefer to avoid pesticides and herbicides.

Timing is Everything: When to Sow Rhubarb Seed

Rhubarb seeds require a period of cold stratification to break dormancy and germinate successfully. This process mimics the natural winter conditions they experience in their native environment.
Start Indoors: Sow seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost in your region.
Direct Sowing: Alternatively, you can direct sow seeds outdoors in the spring after the last frost has passed. However, direct sowing may result in a slower germination rate.

Crafting the Perfect Seed Starting Mix

Rhubarb seeds need a well-draining, fertile soil mix to thrive. Here’s how to create the ideal growing medium:
Ingredients:

• Potting mix: A good quality seed-starting mix provides the necessary nutrients and aeration.
• Perlite: This lightweight material improves drainage and prevents compaction.
• Vermiculite: This mineral helps retain moisture and provides essential nutrients.

Mix Ratio: Combine equal parts of potting mix, perlite, and vermiculite.

Sowing Your Rhubarb Seeds with Care

Now that you have your seed starting mix ready, it’s time to sow your rhubarb seeds. Follow these steps:
1. Fill Seed Trays: Fill seed trays with the prepared mix, leaving about ½ inch of space at the top.
2. Sow Seeds: Sprinkle seeds thinly on the surface of the mix, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
3. Cover Seeds: Gently press the seeds into the mix, but don’t bury them too deep. A light layer of mix is sufficient.
4. Water Gently: Mist the soil surface with a fine-mist spray bottle to moisten the seeds.
5. Provide Light: Place the seed trays in a bright location, but avoid direct sunlight.
6. Maintain Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy.

The Art of Cold Stratification: Breaking Dormancy

Cold stratification is crucial for rhubarb seed germination. It mimics the winter conditions that trigger the seed to sprout. Here’s how to do it:
1. Prepare Containers: Fill airtight containers with moist vermiculite or peat moss.
2. Place Seeds: Mix the rhubarb seeds with the moistened medium.
3. Refrigerate: Store the containers in the refrigerator at 35-40°F (2-4°C) for 6-8 weeks.

Patience is Key: Germination and Seedling Care

After the cold stratification period, your rhubarb seeds are ready to germinate.
Expect Delays: Germination can take several weeks, so be patient.
Maintain Optimal Conditions: Keep the seed trays in a bright location, but avoid direct sunlight. Water regularly to maintain moisture but avoid overwatering.
Thin Seedlings: Once seedlings have developed their first true leaves, thin them to the strongest seedling in each cell.

Transplanting Your Rhubarb Seedlings: New Beginnings

Once your rhubarb seedlings have developed several sets of true leaves, they are ready to be transplanted outdoors.
Timing: Transplant outdoors after the last frost has passed and the soil has warmed to at least 60°F (15°C).
Location: Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Rhubarb prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Prepare the Soil: Dig a hole twice the width and depth of the seedling’s root ball. Amend the soil with compost or manure for added nutrients.
Transplant Carefully: Gently remove the seedling from the seed tray, ensuring the root ball remains intact. Place the seedling in the prepared hole and backfill with soil, gently firming it around the roots.

Nurturing Your Rhubarb Plants: From Seedling to Harvest

Once transplanted, your rhubarb plants need regular care to thrive.
Watering: Water deeply and consistently, especially during dry spells.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to encourage growth.
Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Weeding: Remove any weeds that compete with your rhubarb plants for nutrients and water.

Patience Pays Off: Harvesting Your Rhubarb

Rhubarb typically takes 2-3 years to mature and produce a harvestable amount of stalks.
Harvesting: Harvest stalks in the spring and early summer, before the plant begins to flower.
Cutting Techniques: Cut stalks at the base, leaving a few inches of stalk below ground. This allows the plant to continue producing new stalks.
Avoid Over-Harvesting: Don’t harvest more than one-third of the stalks at a time to allow the plant to recover.

The End of the Journey: A Final Word on Rhubarb

Growing rhubarb from seed is a rewarding experience that allows you to cultivate a unique and flavorful plant. With patience, care, and the right techniques, you can enjoy the fruits (or rather, stalks) of your labor for many years to come.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Can I plant rhubarb seeds directly outdoors?
A: While it is possible, direct sowing often results in a slower germination rate. Starting seeds indoors and transplanting them outdoors is recommended for better success.
Q: How long does it take for rhubarb to produce stalks?
A: Rhubarb typically takes 2-3 years to mature and produce a harvestable amount of stalks.
Q: How do I know when to harvest rhubarb stalks?
A: Harvest stalks in the spring and early summer, before the plant begins to flower. The stalks should be firm and tender.
Q: Can I replant rhubarb from seed?
A: Yes, you can replant rhubarb from seed. However, it is easier to propagate rhubarb by dividing existing crowns.
Q: What are some common problems with growing rhubarb?
A: Common problems include crown rot, leaf blight, and aphids. Good sanitation practices and appropriate pest control measures can help prevent these issues.