Knowledgebase

Rhubarb mystery #848939

Asked September 07, 2023, 6:48 AM EDT

Greetings, Just getting to write about this. The photo of a rhubarb plant was taken at the end of July. Most leaves started to brown at the edges. Leaves subsequently dried out as seen in the photo. No lack of sun or water. Any causes? Thank you.

Bennington County Vermont

Expert Response

Hi Rich,

Since you are an EMG intern, I wanted to share with you that our plant pathologist is out of town and we are having trouble identifying what's going on with your rhubarb. The photo was a bit difficult to discern. Here are some common diseases: https://pnwhandbooks.org/plantdisease/host-and-disease-descriptions?title=rhubarb

I'm wondering if you've seen any evidence of slugs or snails -- the holes on the leaves lead me in that direction... have you seen any slime trails on the leaves?

If you'd like to send in a specimen to the Plant Diagnostic Lab, the team can take a closer look. Instructions and info needed are found on this form: https://www.uvm.edu/sites/default/files/Extension-Community-Horticulture/PDC_Specimen_Worksheet_fillable_form.pdf

Happy Gardening! Replied September 07, 2023, 4:46 PM EDT

Hi Rich, I have opened back up your question and am having Ann Hazelrigg take a look. When I mentioned it to her she asked if you saw any holes at the base of the stalks, a sign of borers. Did you happen to notice anything unusual at the base of the plant? D 

Happy Gardening! Replied September 20, 2023, 5:09 PM EDT
Thanks Deb.

Aah yes, borers!

I will contact the community member where the rhubarb is located and the photo was taken.

Thanks again,

Rich

On Wed, Sep 20, 2023 at 5:09 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied September 20, 2023, 6:47 PM EDT
Hi again Deb,

I heard from the homeowner about their early observation of the rhubarb. They indicate they do not remember seeing any evidence of borers or actual borers.

Thanks again,

Rich

On Wed, Sep 20, 2023 at 6:43 PM Rich Jorgensen <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
Thanks Deb.

Aah yes, borers!

I will contact the community member where the rhubarb is located and the photo was taken.

Thanks again,

Rich

On Wed, Sep 20, 2023 at 5:09 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied November 02, 2023, 1:28 PM EDT

Hi Rich,

Your follow-up just came in today. Thanks!

Hopefully the rhubarb does well next year!!

Happy Gardening! Replied November 02, 2023, 2:27 PM EDT

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