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Can You Grow Rhubarb in Pennsylvania?

US · USDA Zone 6a · zones 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b

Grows well here

Rhubarb thrives here — it is extremely cold-hardy and needs cold winters to perform well.

Plant zones

2a–8a

Pennsylvania last frost

early April

Pennsylvania first frost

late October

Days to harvest

Perennial

About Rhubarb

Rhubarb is extremely cold-hardy and productive — plant once and harvest stalks every spring for decades.

Plant crowns in spring. Never harvest the first year. Never eat the leaves — they are toxic. Mulch crowns in autumn. Divide every 5-7 years. Rhubarb actually improves after cold winters.

Full rhubarb growing guide →

Gardening in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania has a humid continental climate. Philadelphia is Zone 7a; Pittsburgh is Zone 6a; northern Pennsylvania is Zone 5a-5b. Four distinct seasons with a 6-7 month growing window.

See what grows well in Pennsylvania →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Rhubarb in Pennsylvania?

Rhubarb thrives here — it is extremely cold-hardy and needs cold winters to perform well.

What zone is Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania spans USDA Zone 6a (5a, 5b, 6a, 6b).

When do you plant Rhubarb in Pennsylvania?

See the planting guide for Rhubarb — timing depends on your exact frost date.