Growing Rhubarb

So how do you actually grow Chipman's Canada Red rhubarbs in Illinois? Here are some tips:

• Choose a suitable location: Rhubarb prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It also needs full sun or partial shade to thrive.
• Prepare the soil: Before planting your transplants, amend the soil with compost and other organic matter to ensure it has enough nutrients.
• Plant at the right time: Rhubarb should be planted in early spring as soon as the ground can be worked. Make sure your transplants have at least one healthy leaf before planting.
• Space your plants correctly: Rhubarb plants need plenty of room to grow, so space them at least 3 feet apart.
• Water regularly: Rhubarb needs consistent moisture to produce high-quality stalks. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on rainfall.
• Mulch around the plants: Mulch helps retain moisture in the soil and suppress weeds, which can compete with rhubarb for nutrients.
• Fertilize sparingly: Rhubarb doesn't need much fertilizer, but you can give it a boost in early spring with a balanced organic fertilizer (like 10-10-10).
• In fall, remove plant debris.
• in fall, cover with 2-4" organic mulch.

By fo