If you’ve been trying to grow rhubarb and just can’t seem to get those big, juicy stalks everyone raves about, you’re not alone. Tons of gardeners (me included, once!) make the same simple mistake. The good news? It’s easy to fix if you catch it in time.
Why Rhubarb Doesn’t Thrive Sometimes
Rhubarb looks pretty tough, but it’s a bit picky when it comes to growing big and sweet. You could water it and fertilize all you want, but if you miss this one thing, your rhubarb might never reach its true potential.
The Mistake:
People keep harvesting stalks too early, or they pick too many at once. Rhubarb needs those big, leafy tops for energy—if you take too many, it gets weak and thin.
Other Things That Hurt Rhubarb
- Planting in a spot that gets shade most of the day
- Watering too little, or sometimes too much
- Forgetting to feed with a little compost every year
- Not removing flower stalks (these take energy from the plant)
- Crowding plants too close together
How to Harvest Rhubarb the Right Way
- Wait until the plant’s in its second or third year before picking heavily
- Only take about 1/3 of the stalks at any one harvest
- Always leave plenty of leaves on the plant
- Pull, don’t cut, the stalks for less risk of disease
Table: Rhubarb Harvest Comparison
| Harvest Method | Result | Taste | Plant Health |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heavy/early picking | Thin stalks, slow regrowth | Sour | Weak/poor |
| Moderate, proper harvesting | Big, juicy stalks | Sweeter | Strong/healthy |
Simple Tips for Sweeter Stalks
- Mulch in spring with compost for steady nutrients
- Make sure rhubarb gets at least 6 hours of sun
- Water deeply once a week (not shallow, not daily)
- Snap off flower stalks as soon as they show up
Conclusion
A lot of folks grow rhubarb for years and never realize why it stays skinny or tastes so sour. Most times, it’s that common harvesting mistake—taking too much too soon, or not letting the plant get strong enough first. But when you slow down, pick just a few at a time, and give your plant a little love, rhubarb can become a showstopper in your garden. I found out the hard way—don’t be like me! Just a few tweaks, and you’ll have thick, sweet stalks you’ll be proud to share.
