When Should I Replant or Replace My Rhubarb Crown?

Rhubarb is a long-lived perennial — a well-managed crown with regular division can remain productive for twenty years or more. However, crowns that have not been divided, that have developed disease or that are growing on a depleted site will eventually decline to the point where replacement is the better option. Knowing the signs that a crown is approaching the end of its productive life — and how to make a successful replanting — is part of the long-term management of any rhubarb planting.

Signs it is time to replace a crown

Progressive thinning of stalks over several years despite good feeding and watering; frequent bolting (flower stalk production) year after year; a very woody, congested crown when you dig and inspect it; or disease such as crown rot that cannot be reversed. If dividing the crown produces only small, woody sections with few viable buds, the crown has exhausted its productive potential.

When to replant — autumn or early spring

Dig crowns for division or disposal in late October or November after the foliage has died back. Autumn is the best replanting time — new crowns have the entire winter to settle in and establish before the demands of spring growth. Early spring (February–March) is an acceptable alternative. Midsummer replanting is not recommended as heat and water stress make establishment difficult.

Should you replant in the same position?

Ideally move rhubarb to a fresh position with improved soil when replanting. A crown that declined from disease or soil depletion in one spot is less likely to thrive in that same soil. Rotating to a different bed, after thoroughly improving the soil with compost, gives the new crown the best possible start. If the same position is unavoidable, dig out as much old root material as possible and incorporate significant quantities of fresh compost before replanting.