Gardening Tips: How To Move Rhubarb

When is the best time to move Rhubarb?

The best time to move an established rhubarb plant is early spring just as it starts to come into active growth. We have some very large Rhubarb plants on the farm that we need to move this week, so we thought we share our tips to help you. There is a video at the bottom of the post that you may find helpful showing you how to move it.

If you're looking to move an established rhubarb plant to a new location, here are the steps you should follow:

1. Choose a new location: Rhubarb prefers a spot with rich, well-draining soil and partial shade. Choose a location that meets these requirements and has enough space to accommodate the plant's size at maturity.

2. Prepare the new location: Dig a hole that is large enough to accommodate the rhubarb's root system. Mix some compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to improve its fertility.

3. Water the rhubarb: Water the plant thoroughly a few days before you plan to move it. or move it after you’ve had heavy rain. This will help the roots to hold onto the soil when you dig it up.

4. Dig up the plant: Use a garden fork or spade to dig around the base of the plant, taking care not to damage the roots. Lift the plant out of the ground and gently shake off any excess soil.

5. Divide the plant (optional): If the rhubarb is large and mature, you may want to divide it before transplanting. Use a sharp knife to cut the crown into smaller sections, making sure each section has at least one healthy bud and a portion of the root system.

6. Replant the rhubarb: Place the plant in the new hole, making sure the crown is level with the soil surface. Backfill the hole with soil and gently firm it down around the plant.

7. Water the rhubarb: Water the plant well after transplanting to help it settle in. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged for the first few weeks while the plant establishes itself.

8. Mulch the plant: Cover the soil around the rhubarb with a layer of mulch to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

With proper care and attention, your transplanted rhubarb should thrive in its new location.

Watch our youtube video below showing you how to divide, propagate and move a large established rhubarb plant