Lawn Guardian

When to Plant Rhubarb (for pies/desserts)

Rheum rhabarbarum

fruitZones 2–8beginner

While botanically a vegetable, rhubarb is used exclusively as a fruit in pies, crisps, and jams. Tart stalks pair perfectly with strawberries. Extremely easy perennial.

Planting calendar

Direct sow / transplant

4 weeks before your last spring frost.

Same plant as rhubarb vegetable; categorized here for pie/dessert use; do not harvest first year

Spacing & harvest

Companion planting

Plant near

Get rhubarb (for pies/desserts) planting dates for your exact zone

Lawn Guardian turns this guidance into a schedule timed to your USDA zone and this week's actual weather — and adapts every time you log what you've done.

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Sources: Purdue University Turfgrass Science: Use Growing Degree Days to Better Time Your Applications · University of Missouri Extension: Cool-Season Grasses: Lawn Maintenance Calendar · University of Minnesota Extension: Pre-emergent Herbicides for Crabgrass Control in Lawns