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Moving rhubarb

I have a rhubarb crown that does not seem too happy where it has lived for about five years. I must have had less than a dozen spindly sticks in that time so I'm going to move it to a new home. The bed is ready now but my neighbour says to leave it until Spring. Surely it would have more chance of establishing itself if I re-plant it now wouldn't it ?

Posts

  • I think spring is safer as the plant will start actively growing then and any damage to the roots you cause when transplanting (and some is inevitable) would heal quickly, whereas rot may set in on the damaged parts if you move it now.  Just my own preference of course - the opinion of others may differ as some folk do move them in autumn.

    A trowel in the hand is worth a thousand lost under a bush.
  • I divided and moved an old rhubarb crown that wasn't producing well and very thin in the middle. I did this in spring, gave away three sections and planted up the remaining piece in a newly prepared bed.  It perked up quickly and has been much more productive since.  I agree with Bobthegardener - I personally would be cautious about lifting it now and would wait until spring. If it's moved now and we continue with mild weather for a while it might be fine, but if late autumn/early winter is very wet it might not survive the move.

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