How to Divide Rhubarb Plants

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Plan for rhubarb dividing during the correct season.

   The plant should be divided when it is dormant.
   
   In warmer climates, this may be mid-December or February.
   
   In colder climes, it may be dormant from late fall to early spring.
   
   Since the plant will no longer be producing stalks, it may be hard to spot, so be sure to mark the plant with a stake or stick, so that you can find it again.
   
   If you live in an area with snow, it is best to do this before or after the ground freezes.
2. 2

   Step 2: Wear thick gardening gloves.

   The soil may be cold at this time of year.
   
   Wear appropriate clothing that can be soiled. , Since rhubarb can only be divided every 5 years, the roots should be firmly attached to the crown.
   
   You will need to break some roots under the crown with the fork. , Each section must have at least 1 white or pink bud on it.
   
   You may need to look carefully before using the spade, in order to see the hidden buds.
   
   A large rhubarb plant could be divided into up to 8 plants, as long as care is taken to include a bud and at least a small amount of root with each section. ,, The hole should be bigger than the rhubarb crown section. , Make sure the top of the crown is at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) below the top of the hole. , Press it down with your foot to ensure that the crown is firmly planted in the soil. , Root pieces need to be properly protected if you are not planning to plant them immediately.
   
   They must not dry or freeze.
   
   Keep them moist and moderately warm. , The rhubarb should start to sprout in early spring, when the soil warms.
3. 3

   Step 3: Use a gardening fork to raise the crown of the plant from the ground.

4. 4

   Step 4: Take a spade and separate the plant into 2 or 3 different crowns.

5. 5

   Step 5: Use your foot to apply the appropriate amount of pressure it will take to separate a well-rooted rhubarb plant.

6. 6

   Step 6: Dig a hole for each rhubarb section.

7. 7

   Step 7: Place a crown section into the hole

8. 8

   Step 8: root section first.

9. 9

   Step 9: Fill in the remaining inch (2.5 cm) with soil.

10. 10

    Step 10: Plant rhubarb crown sections in the remaining holes.

11. 11

    Step 11: Mark the areas you have just planted with a stake or stick.

Detailed Guide

About the Author