Rhubarb help

ex_fox_now_a_dragon

I have a new rhubarb plant which I planted in April this year on my allotment. It has now doubled in size and I really need to split it. When would be a good time to do this?
Thanks

mrbadexample

You're not really supposed to split rhubarb crowns until they are 4-5 years old. Having said that, if you really need to do it, then wait until winter when the plant is dormant.

ex_fox_now_a_dragon

Thanks for the info.
I think I planted it in the wrong spot on the allotment as it's right next to a gooseberry bush, not appreciating how big it was going to get so quickly, as the previous one I bought from a certain online retailer just vanished into thin air.

ladylouise62

They do take up a lot of space, so it's probably not splitting it needs, but just moving. If you do split it before it's old enough to warrant it you will be weakening it bit, and thus making it a little more likely to keel over. You'll also have to wait a couple more seasons to eat it.