Rhubarb Victoria: The Classic Choice for a Reliable Sweet, Juicy Harvest

Rheum x hybridum

Rhubarb ‘Victoria’ remains one of the most dependable and productive rhubarb cultivars available to home gardeners. Highly valued for its vibrant pink-red stems and deliciously sweet yet tangy flavour, this classic variety is a reliable choice for novice and experienced growers. Whether establishing a new vegetable patch or adding to a mature perennial bed, this guide will walk you through every stage of growing, caring for, and harvesting Rhubarb ‘Victoria’ to ensure a thriving, long-lasting crop.

Careful planning is key to growing robust rhubarb plants that produce abundant stems year after year. Rhubarb thrives in a sunny, open position with rich, well-drained soil. Avoid shaded spots and heavy, poorly draining ground, as excess moisture can quickly lead to crown rot. If you’re working with clay soil, improve texture and drainage by incorporating generous amounts of organic matter—well-rotted manure or garden compost works best.

Space is equally important. Rhubarb plants need plenty of room to develop. Set each crown at least 75cm apart to allow for proper airflow and reduce the risk of fungal issues. When planting, ensure the crown sits approximately 3cm below the soil surface. This encourages strong root establishment while protecting the crown from rot caused by excess surface moisture.

For best results, plant rhubarb crowns during the dormant season—ideally in autumn or early spring, when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged. Start by enriching the planting area with well-rotted manure and a fertiliser such as sulphate or ammonia to boost nitrogen levels.

Dig a wide hole and position the crown so the growing point sits beneath the surface. Avoid burying it too deeply, as this increases the risk of rot. Water thoroughly after planting and finish by applying a generous mulch to retain moisture and keep weeds under control.

Rhubarb ‘Victoria’ is low-maintenance but benefits from regular care to maintain vigour. During its first year, focus on encouraging strong root growth by keeping the plant well-watered, particularly during prolonged dry periods. A thick manure or leaf mould mulch helps conserve soil moisture and suppresses weed growth.

Consider feeding your plant a balanced fertiliser in early spring to support healthy growth. Remove any flower stalks as soon as they appear, as these divert energy from the stems. You can begin harvesting sparingly from the second year onward, allowing the plant to mature.

Cut away tired, yellowing leaves in late autumn to keep the crown healthy and reduce disease risk over winter. With proper care, each rhubarb crown will be produced for 8 to 10 years before needing replacement.

Rhubarb ‘Victoria’ is typically ready to harvest from mid-spring to early summer. Stalks are prepared when they reach at least 30cm in length. To harvest, grip the base of the stalk firmly and pull upwards with a slight twist—this ensures a clean break and helps prevent damage to the crown. Avoid cutting stalks with a knife, as this can leave open wounds that may introduce disease.

Never harvest more than one-third of the plant at any one time. This allows the rhubarb to continue growing strongly throughout the season. The juicy stalks of Rhubarb ‘Victoria’ are well known for their tender texture and balanced flavour—ideal for crumbles, jams, and classic rhubarb tarts.

If you’re eager for an earlier crop, forcing rhubarb is an excellent technique. Cover an established crown with a traditional rhubarb forcer or an upturned bucket in late winter to exclude light. This prompts the plant to produce long, pale pink stems much earlier than usual.

Forced rhubarb is prized for its tender texture and heightened sweetness, making it a gourmet addition to desserts. However, avoid forcing the same crown in consecutive years to prevent weakening the plant.

Rhubarb is generally a trouble-free crop, but a few issues can affect growth and yield. The most common problems include:

• Crown Rot – Often caused by poor drainage or planting too deeply. Always ensure the site is free-draining and that crowns are planted below the surface.
• Weed Competition – Weeds compete for moisture and nutrients. To keep the area clear, apply thick mulch annually and hand-weed regularly.
•  Pests and Diseases – Rhubarb is usually pest-resistant, but fungal problems can occur if old foliage is left to rot. Clear away dead leaves in autumn to prevent this.

With thoughtful planning and consistent care, Rhubarb ‘Victoria’ will reward you with years of bountiful harvests and culinary delight. This dependable variety remains a staple for any kitchen garden, blending ornamental charm with practical productivity.

Rhubarb ‘Victoria’ holds a special place in my garden—and on my plate. It’s one of those plants that keeps giving, year after year, with very little fuss. I remember my first harvest: the vibrant pink stalks, the satisfying twist-and-pull, and the unmistakable aroma when it hit the pan. It’s the perfect blend of practicality and pleasure—easy to grow, generous in yield, and brilliant in everything from pies to chutneys. I always give it a rich start with plenty of well-rotted manure, and I mulch heavily to keep things ticking along. You can’t go wrong with ‘ Victoria ‘ if you’re just starting or looking for a trusty addition to your patch. It’s a classic for a reason—and I wouldn’t be without it.

Key Points to Remember:

• Plant Rhubarb Victoria in a sunny spot with well-drained soil
• Space plants 75cm apart to allow for growth
• Apply well-rotted manure and mulch for better growth
• Avoid harvesting in the first year to let plants establish
• Harvest by twisting stalks rather than cutting them
• Forcing rhubarb can provide an early harvest with tender stems
• Regular maintenance, such as weeding and mulching, ensures healthy plants

Growing Rhubarb Victoria is a rewarding experience. With proper care, your plants will provide a delicious crop for many years. This classic variety is a must-have for any garden, whether for pies, jams, or crumbles.

To see the RHS article, please click here

For more information on Fruit for your garden, please click here

Read about Rhubarb Fulton’s Strawberry Surprise here

Q: What is Victoria rhubarb, and how does it differ from other types of rhubarb?

A: Victoria rhubarb, scientifically known as Rheum x hybridum, is a widely favoured variety renowned for its thick, succulent stems. Compared to other rhubarb varieties, it boasts a milder flavour and a less fibrous texture, making it an excellent choice for pies, desserts, and culinary creations.

Q: When is the best time to plant rhubarb crowns?

A: The optimal time to plant Victoria rhubarb crowns is early spring or late autumn. If you’re planting bare-root rhubarb, ensure the soil is well-drained and not overly heavy, as this can hinder growth and lead to dormancy issues.

Q: How do I care for my Victoria rhubarb once planted?

To care for your Victoria rhubarb, keep the plants well-watered, particularly during the growing season. Applying a layer of mulch can help retain soil moisture and keep the roots cool. Check for dieback and trim any faded or dead leaves in colder weather to maintain plant health.

Q: Can I grow rhubarb in containers?

A: Yes, you can! Growing Victoria rhubarb in containers is an excellent solution for those with limited space. Ensure the container is large enough to accommodate the root crown and has adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging.

Q: How long does it take for Victoria rhubarb stems to be ready to harvest?

A: Typically, you can begin harvesting Victoria rhubarb stems approximately two years after planting. However, allowing the plants to establish themselves fully before harvesting is advisable to ensure a robust and sustainable crop.

Q: What should I do if my rhubarb plants aren’t producing a good crop?

A: If your rhubarb plants are underperforming, check whether they receive sufficient sunlight and water. In some cases, amending the soil with organic matter can improve growing conditions, especially if the soil is heavy or poorly drained.

Q: Is it possible to propagate Victoria rhubarb from existing plants?

A: Absolutely! Victoria rhubarb can be propagated by dividing the root crown of established plants. Ensure each division has several healthy buds; you’ll soon have new plants ready to thrive in your garden.

Q: How do I prepare my rhubarb for winter dormancy?

A: To prepare your rhubarb for winter, cut back any faded or dead leaves to prevent pests and diseases from overwintering. Applying a thick layer of mulch around the base of the plant will help protect the roots from frost and cold temperatures.

Q: Where can I buy rhubarb crowns for planting?

A: Victoria rhubarb crowns can be purchased from local garden centres or online retailers that offer UK delivery. Please source your plants from reputable growers to ensure they have quality and healthy stock.

Q: What are some growing tips for successful rhubarb cultivation?

A: For successful rhubarb cultivation, ensure your plants are well-watered, particularly during dry periods, and feed them with a balanced fertiliser during the summer months. Healthy, well-cared-for plants will reward you with a plentiful harvest of delicious stems!