Rhubarb grows best in an open, sunny site with fertile, moist but well-drained soil. It prefers soil that is rich in organic matter, such as well-rotted manure or compost, and does not tolerate waterlogged conditions, which can cause root rot
. Key growing conditions for rhubarb include:
- Sunlight: Full sun is ideal, but it can tolerate light shade. In hotter regions (USDA Zone 6 and above), some afternoon shade is beneficial to protect from heat stress
- Soil: Fertile, loamy, well-drained soil with good organic content is best. Heavy or clay soils should be improved with organic matter or planted in raised beds or large containers to avoid waterlogging
- Spacing: Plants should be spaced about 75–90 cm (30–36 inches) apart to allow room for growth
- Climate: Rhubarb thrives in cooler climates where the ground freezes in winter, as it requires a chilling period below 40°F (4°C) to produce well. It is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 7, making it suitable for many temperate regions
In summary, rhubarb grows best in temperate climates with cold winters, in sunny locations with rich, moist, but free-draining soil, and adequate space to spread out. Avoid planting in waterlogged or very hot, dry sites for best results
