Rhubarb illustration

Growing Rhubarb in Zone 12a

Zone 12a has a year-round growing season. Rhubarb can be planted almost any time with proper planning. Last frost: Jan 1. First frost: Dec 31.

Planting Calendar

Indoor
Outdoor
Harvest
Oct 23Dec 31

Season: Jan 1 – Dec 31 (364 days)

Zone12a
Last FrostJan 1
First FrostDec 31
Season Length364 days
Days to Harvest90
SunFull Sun
Frost ToleranceHeavy
Spacing1/sqft (12" apart)

When to Plant Rhubarb in Zone 12a

Start Seeds Indoors: Oct 23

Start Rhubarb seeds indoors around Oct 23 (10 weeks before last frost). Optimal germination temperature: 65°F. Germinates in 7–21 days.

Transplant Outdoors: Dec 4

Transplant Rhubarb seedlings outdoors after Dec 4. Wait until soil temperature reaches 40°F. Space plants at 1/sqft (12" apart). Harden off plants for a week before moving outside.

Harvest: Dec 4

First harvest approximately Dec 4 (~365 days from transplant). Continue harvesting until first frost (Dec 31). Rhubarb can overwinter in mild climates for continued harvest.

Plan Your Rhubarb Garden

Track Rhubarb from seed to harvest with personalized frost dates, watering recommendations, and companion planting visualization.

Start Free Rhubarb Growing Guide