Alternatively, you can divide the rhubarb during late winter when it is dormant. Make sure that you do this after the last frost. [1] X Research source
The rhizome is the thick part of the stem that grows underground. The roots come off of the rhizome and clump together to form a root ball. The roots can grow at least 1 inch (2. 5 cm) long. It’s okay if you accidentally cut the ends of these roots.
Some will be larger than others. If you take good care of them, however, they all have the potential to grow into strong, healthy plants.
If you notice that the roots are rotten, this means that the soil is waterlogged or that you have overwatered the rhubarb. Root disease, honey fungus, and bacterial crown rot are more serious. You need to discard all diseased crowns.
Make sure that the planting site is free of any weeds. If the roots were rotten as a result of waterlogged soil, add a layer of gravel to the bottom of the planting site first.
You are planting just 1 division for now. You’ll have to repeat this process for every division that you want to plant.
Tamp the soil over rhizome with your foot to remove any air pockets. [8] X Research source
Expect new shoots to form after 2 to 3 months. [10] X Research source You can store rhubarb rhizomes for a long time, but it is best to plant them in late winter.
You should leave some of the smaller leaves behind.
Avoid fertilizers high in nitrogen at first. You can eventually use high-nitrogen fertilizers after the first frost however, while the ground is still thawing.
