Introduction to Stardew Valley Rhubarb Crop Guide
Rhubarb is a highly valuable and versatile fruit crop in Stardew Valley, primarily grown during the spring season. Known for its high profitability, Rhubarb is considered a rare crop because players must first obtain its seeds before they can plant it. While the edible part of the plant is technically a vegetable, the game classifies it as a fruit, adding an interesting twist for players. Rhubarb is a perennial crop, meaning it will continue to grow each spring after being harvested, providing a reliable source of profit year after year. This unique crop requires a 13-day growth period before it’s ready for harvest, making it a short-term investment with significant rewards.
In terms of utility, Rhubarb is more than just a sellable crop. It plays a key role in the creation of Rhubarb Pie, a highly profitable cooked dish that can be sold for a substantial amount of gold. The recipe for Rhubarb Pie is obtainable by building a relationship with Marnie, making it a rewarding goal for players looking to maximize their in-game earnings. Rhubarb can also be used in tailoring to craft the Green Buttoned Vest, an item that adds customization to your character’s appearance. Additionally, Rhubarb serves as a red dye in the dye pots located in Emily’s and Haley’s house at 2 Willow Lane, allowing players to add a personal touch to their farm and clothing.
Aside from its uses in cooking and crafting, Rhubarb can be gifted to various villagers, increasing friendship levels with certain characters. It’s loved by several key villagers, including Demetrius, Elliott, Harvey, and Pam, making it an excellent choice for improving relationships and earning valuable rewards.
Growing Rhubarb effectively can make a significant difference in a player’s farming success. The crop not only contributes to profits through direct sales, but its additional uses in recipes, gifts, and crafting give it widespread utility. By focusing on planting Rhubarb and incorporating it into your farming strategy, you can maximize both your economic and social potential in Stardew Valley. Whether you’re looking to sell it for a quick profit, cook up delicious dishes, or improve your relationships with the villagers, Rhubarb is a must-have crop that offers a multitude of benefits to any farmer.
Obtaining Rhubarb Seeds
The most reliable way to acquire Rhubarb seeds is by purchasing them from Sandy at the Oasis store in the Calico Desert. The store is open daily from 9 am to 11:50 pm, and each seed costs 100g. Since the Oasis is located in the desert, players must first repair the bus by completing the Vault bundle at the Community Center or purchasing the repair through Joja Mart. Once the bus is operational, a ticket to the desert costs 500g, allowing access to the store. Buying seeds from the Oasis is the most consistent method, making it the preferred option for players looking to grow Rhubarb regularly.
Rhubarb seeds can also appear at the Traveling Cart, which visits the Cindersap Forest on Fridays and Sundays. However, prices at the cart fluctuate between 150g and 1,000g, making it an unreliable source due to its inconsistent availability and potentially higher cost. Another way to obtain Rhubarb seeds is by using the Seed Maker, which allows players to turn harvested Rhubarb into seeds for future planting. This method can be useful for sustaining Rhubarb crops without needing to repurchase seeds, but it requires an initial harvest to begin the cycle.
For players exploring deeper into the game, treasure rooms within the Skull Cavern can occasionally contain 5 to 20 Rhubarb seeds. Since these rooms are rare and require venturing into the more dangerous levels of the cavern, this is not the most efficient way to obtain seeds but can be a helpful bonus for those already mining for resources. Additionally, planting mixed seeds on Ginger Island has a chance to produce Rhubarb, though this method is unpredictable. While there are multiple ways to acquire Rhubarb seeds, purchasing them from the Oasis remains the most dependable and cost-effective method for players looking to grow Rhubarb consistently.
Growing Rhubarb
Rhubarb seeds must be planted in tilled soil, and each seed will produce one Rhubarb plant. If players want to grow Rhubarb outside of its natural season, it can be planted in a Garden Pot indoors, where it must be watered daily for 13 days until it reaches maturity. Rhubarb takes 13 days to fully grow, progressing through five distinct growth stages, which are visually indicated by the development of its leaves. To ensure healthy growth, Rhubarb requires daily watering, as neglected crops will not progress.
Once fully matured, Rhubarb can be harvested by clicking on the plant, yielding one Rhubarb per crop. Harvesting grants 26 farming experience points, but since Rhubarb is not a regrowing crop, players must replant new seeds after harvesting to continue production. Fertilizers can be applied to improve growth efficiency. Speed-Gro reduces the growth time by 10%, Deluxe Speed-Gro shortens it by 25%, and Hyper Speed-Gro cuts it down by 33%. The Agriculturist profession further accelerates growth, reducing the time by 20% on its own. When combined with Speed-Gro, growth time is reduced by 35%, with Deluxe Speed-Gro by 43%, making it a useful option for those looking to maximize their yield within a season.
Rhubarb is a spring crop and will not grow in fall or winter unless planted in a controlled environment like a Greenhouse or Garden Pot. While in reality, Rhubarb is a perennial plant that produces new stalks over multiple seasons, in Stardew Valley, it does not continue to produce after being harvested. Rhubarb can be sold at varying qualities, including ordinary, silver, gold, and iridium, with higher-quality crops earning more profit. Using Deluxe Fertilizer increases the chance of obtaining Iridium-quality Rhubarb, further enhancing its value. Rhubarb is a profitable crop that can be sold for income, gifted to villagers, or used in cooking recipes, making it a useful addition to any farm.
Harvesting Rhubarb
Rhubarb is ready for harvest when its stalks are thick and firm, reaching a height of at least 12 inches. A vibrant red or pink color indicates maturity, while the leaves should appear large and healthy without signs of wilting or yellowing. To harvest, use a sharp knife to cut the stalks cleanly at the base, avoiding any tearing or bruising. The leaves must be removed immediately, as they contain oxalic acid, which is harmful if ingested. Since Rhubarb does not regrow after harvesting, new seeds must be planted for continued production.
As a spring crop, Rhubarb can be harvested once it reaches full maturity, which takes 13 days. Once harvested, each plant yields one Rhubarb, granting 26 farming experience points. Unlike real-life Rhubarb, which is a perennial plant that regrows over multiple seasons, in Stardew Valley, it must be replanted each year. Rhubarb does not grow in fall or winter, remaining dormant outside of its natural growing season unless cultivated in a Greenhouse or Garden Pot.
Freshly harvested Rhubarb can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For long-term preservation, it can be frozen or canned. To freeze, cut the stalks into one-inch pieces and store them in airtight containers, allowing them to last up to six months. Canning Rhubarb preserves it for up to a year when stored in sealed jars using safe canning practices. Whether sold for profit, used in cooking, or gifted to villagers, Rhubarb remains a valuable crop for farmers looking to maximize their earnings during the spring season.
Selling Rhubarb
The base selling price for Rhubarb is 220g, with higher-quality crops earning more. Silver-quality Rhubarb sells for 275g, gold-quality for 330g, and iridium-quality for 440g. If the player has the Tiller profession, which grants a 10% bonus on crop sales, the prices increase to 242g for base quality, 302g for silver, 363g for gold, and 484g for iridium. Rhubarb can be sold directly to Pierre’s General Store or placed in the Shipping Bin for profit.
Rhubarb is considered a valuable crop, especially in the early game, as it provides a strong return on investment. Since its seeds cost 100g, even a base-quality Rhubarb yields a profit of 120g per harvest. Higher quality crops provide even greater returns, making Rhubarb a profitable choice for maximizing income. Based on its base selling price and 13-day growth period, Rhubarb generates an average of 16.92g per day.
Beyond selling as a raw crop, Rhubarb can be used to create artisan goods that increase its value. Rhubarb Pie, made with 1 Rhubarb, 1 Wheat Flour, and 1 Sugar, sells for 400g. The recipe for Rhubarb Pie is obtained through building a friendship with Marnie. Rhubarb can also be used to make Rhubarb Wine, which further boosts its profitability.
Rhubarb is not just for profit, as it can also be gifted to villagers. Several characters in Stardew Valley appreciate receiving Rhubarb, including Demetrius, Elliott, Harvey, Jodi, Kent, Leah, Linus, Pam, Robin, Sandy, and Shane. Whether used for profit, artisan goods, or social interactions, Rhubarb remains a valuable and versatile crop in the game.
Using Rhubarb
Rhubarb is a profitable crop that can be sold for a base price of 220g, with higher-quality versions selling for more. Silver-quality Rhubarb sells for 275g, gold for 330g, and iridium for 440g. Players with the Tiller profession receive a 10% bonus, increasing the prices to 242g for base quality, 302g for silver, 363g for gold, and 484g for iridium. Rhubarb can be sold at Pierre’s General Store or placed in the Shipping Bin for convenience and profit.
In cooking, Rhubarb is a key ingredient in Rhubarb Pie, which requires 1 Rhubarb, 1 Wheat Flour, and 1 Sugar. The pie sells for 400g, making it a valuable dish. The recipe is obtained by reaching seven hearts with Marnie, who will send it through the mail. Rhubarb can also be processed into artisan goods, such as Rhubarb Wine, which significantly increases its value when placed in a Keg.
Rhubarb is a well-received gift among villagers, with Demetrius, Elliott, Harvey, Jodi, Kent, Leah, Linus, Pam, Robin, Sandy, and Shane all liking it. This makes Rhubarb a useful crop for improving relationships with multiple characters. In tailoring, it can be used in the spool of the Sewing Machine to craft a Green Buttoned Vest. Additionally, it serves as a red dye in the dye pots at Emily and Haley’s house, adding to its crafting utility.
While Rhubarb can be eaten raw, its true value lies in selling, cooking, and crafting. Unlike many other crops, it is not required for any bundles or quests, making it primarily a money-making and gift-giving crop. Its versatility in profit generation, culinary uses, and crafting applications makes Rhubarb a worthwhile investment for farmers in Stardew Valley.
Storage and Preservation
For short-term storage, Rhubarb can be kept in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To maintain its freshness, wrap the stalks in a damp paper towel and store them in the crisper drawer. Keeping Rhubarb properly stored at a cool temperature prevents it from drying out and losing its crisp texture. It is important to avoid washing Rhubarb before storing, as excess moisture can cause it to spoil more quickly. If needed, individual stalks can be trimmed to fit within the storage space, but they should remain whole to retain as much moisture as possible.
For long-term storage, freezing is one of the best methods to preserve Rhubarb for several months. To freeze Rhubarb, first wash and dry the stalks thoroughly. Then, trim the ends and cut the Rhubarb into 1-inch pieces. If preferred, Rhubarb can be blanched before freezing by briefly boiling the pieces and then cooling them in ice water. This step can help preserve color and texture.
Once prepared, spread the pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid to prevent them from sticking together. Afterward, transfer the frozen Rhubarb into airtight containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Properly frozen Rhubarb can last for up to six months while maintaining its quality and flavor.
Canning is another effective method for preserving Rhubarb for long-term use. To can Rhubarb, the stalks should first be washed, trimmed, and cut into smaller pieces. The pieces are then heated with sugar and water until softened before being packed into sterilized jars. The jars must be processed in a water bath canner to ensure proper sealing and prevent spoilage. Once canned, Rhubarb can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year. This method allows for easy access to preserved Rhubarb, which can be used for baking, cooking, or making jams and sauces.
Since Rhubarb leaves contain oxalic acid, which is toxic if ingested, they should always be removed before storage. Whether refrigerating, freezing, or canning, handling Rhubarb properly ensures that it remains fresh and safe for consumption. By using the right preservation methods, farmers and players in Stardew Valley can store their harvested Rhubarb efficiently, making it available for use in cooking, crafting, and selling throughout the year.
Other
Rhubarb seeds can be purchased from Sandy at the Oasis store in the Calico Desert for 100g each. The store is open daily from 9 am to 11:50 pm. To access the Oasis, the player must repair the bus by completing the Vault bundle at the Community Center or purchasing the repair through Joja Mart. Rhubarb seeds are also occasionally available at the Traveling Cart, where prices range from 150g to 1,000g.
In addition to purchasing, Rhubarb seeds can sometimes be obtained from the Seed Maker. Players exploring the Skull Cavern may also find five to twenty Rhubarb seeds in treasure rooms. Mixed Seeds planted on Ginger Island can sometimes grow into Rhubarb, providing an alternative method for acquiring the crop outside of the usual purchase options.
Rhubarb is a spring crop that takes 13 days to fully mature from seed to harvest. It progresses through five distinct growth stages, with visible changes in appearance as it develops. Once fully grown, Rhubarb can be harvested for farming experience and profit. Since Rhubarb does not regrow after harvesting, new seeds must be planted each time. Players looking to grow Rhubarb outside of spring can use a Garden Pot, allowing cultivation indoors year-round with proper watering. Harvesting Rhubarb grants 26 farming experience points, contributing to skill progression. While classified as a fruit crop in Stardew Valley, Rhubarb is considered a vegetable in reality, as only the stalk is edible.
Rhubarb Pie is one of the notable recipes that use Rhubarb. The recipe is obtained by reaching seven or more hearts of friendship with Marnie, who will send it in the mail. To prepare Rhubarb Pie, players need one Rhubarb, one Wheat Flour, and one Sugar. This dish provides a valuable use for harvested Rhubarb, allowing it to be turned into a cooked item with a higher selling price.
Beyond cooking, Rhubarb has additional crafting and tailoring uses. It can be used in the dye pots inside Emily’s and Haley’s house at 2 Willow Lane to create red dye. Rhubarb is also an ingredient in tailoring, where it can be placed in the Sewing Machine to craft a Green Buttoned Vest.
While not the most profitable crop, Rhubarb offers decent earnings for players looking to maximize their farm income. The base selling price for Rhubarb is 220g, and it increases with higher quality crops. Over its 13-day growth cycle, Rhubarb provides an average earning of 16.92g per day, making it a solid option for profit, especially for players with access to the Oasis early in the game. In addition to selling, Rhubarb can be gifted to villagers, helping to build friendships. Though Rhubarb is not used in any community center bundles or quests, it remains a valuable crop due to its versatility in cooking, crafting, and trading.
In summary, Rhubarb is a spring crop that takes 13 days to grow and does not regrow after harvesting. It can be purchased from Sandy at the Oasis or occasionally found through other means, such as the Traveling Cart or Skull Cavern treasure rooms. With uses in cooking, crafting, gifting, and tailoring, Rhubarb is a worthwhile crop for players looking to expand their farm’s variety and earn a steady income.
