Rhubarb plants do spread. Once a rhubarb plant is mature, it can spread out over a three-to-four-foot area. This means that the plant will take up quite a bit of space in your garden or landscaping area.
One of the first signs of growth in the spring is the emergence of large leaves from the rhubarb plant. These leaves can become quite large, reaching up to two feet in width. They are attached to the plant by petioles, which are the leaf stems. These petioles can grow to be up to 30 inches in length.
The petioles are the part of the rhubarb plant that we typically eat. They are thick and fleshy, making them perfect for use in cooking and baking. The vibrant red or green color of the petioles adds a beautiful touch to any dish.
When it comes to spreading, rhubarb plants have a unique way of doing so. They send out underground stems, called rhizomes, which can produce new plants. These rhizomes can travel quite a distance, allowing the plant to spread and take root in different areas of the garden.
If left unchecked, rhubarb plants can quickly take over a garden bed or landscaping area. This is why it is important to provide enough space for the plants to spread out and to regularly divide and thin them to keep them in check.
Dividing rhubarb plants every few years is not only necessary for preventing overcrowding, but it also helps to rejuvenate the plant. The process involves digging up the rhubarb clump and separating it into smaller sections, each with its own rhizomes and crown. These divisions can then be replanted in different areas of the garden or shared with friends and family.
In my own experience, I have seen rhubarb plants spread and take over a garden bed if not properly maintained. I once had a small patch of rhubarb that I neglected for a couple of years, and it quickly grew into a sprawling mass of leaves and stems. It took quite a bit of effort to dig up and divide the plant to regain control of the bed.
To summarize, rhubarb plants do indeed spread. They have large leaves that can grow up to two feet across on petioles that can reach 30 inches in length. The plants spread through underground stems called rhizomes, which allow them to take root in different areas. Regular division and thinning of the plants are necessary to prevent overcrowding and maintain control in the garden.
