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unhealthy rhubarb #632968
Asked May 08, 2020, 11:56 AM EDT
Multnomah County Oregon
Expert Response
Thank you for choosing Ask an Expert for help with your rhubarb. The weak growth may simply be a result of transplanting. Newly-transplanted rhubarb is generally given a year to get its feet under it. Continue to give it good care and next year it should take of more strongly.
I believe I see a bit of grey/white fuzz which could indicate a fungus attack. This disease can be discouraged by good air circulation around the plant.
The little white spots on the leaves could be leafhoppers or thrips. Check out the underside of the leaves to see whether you can see any insects building up in your garden bed.
For lots more information on growing rhubarb, see this Oregon Extension Service brochure, Growing Your Own Rhubarb. See here: https://catalog.extension.oregonstate.edu/ec797
Have a good gardening year,