Does anyone know why my rhubarb doesn't grow any larger than the size of a pencil?

Question

I live in oklahoma where the tempurature is pretty hot and the rhubarb is not producing a large amount of stems and what there is are quite thin. i would like thicker stems.

Answer 1

Its good to check out what type of rhubarb you have to ensure it gets to a decent size. Gunnera Manicata, should be the biggest kind. If you want to maximize the size of your rhubarb, you need to ensure it stays damp, and doesn't get shaded out or have a tree with roots all over close to it.

If this is your first year growing it, don't expect full size stems.

Answer 2

water and small amounts of fertilizer.  if it is near trees look for tree roots.  the tree will take all nutrients befor the rubarb roots can access them.   Top layering of organic fertilizer (animal dug)  will help since this leaks down to top level roots befor tree roots.

Answer 3

Big leaves and stems require big roots. You need loose sandy or loamy soil about 2 ft. deep, lots of water and fertilize once a month with a balanced fertilizer like 13-13-13.