Rhubarb is one of Ontario’s most beloved spring crops — and one of its most underrated. Those long, tart crimson stalks are the first true sign that the growing season has arrived, and every May, a handful of dedicated Ontario farms open their gates for u-pick rhubarb season.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker with a strawberry-rhubarb pie on your mind, or you’ve never picked rhubarb before and you’re curious what the fuss is about, this guide has everything you need to find a farm, pick the best stalks, and make the most of your harvest.

When Is Rhubarb Season in Ontario?

Rhubarb is one of the earliest crops to emerge each spring, which makes it a favourite among farmers and foragers alike. In Ontario, u-pick rhubarb season generally runs from mid-May through June, though this can vary by region and weather conditions.

• Southern Ontario (Niagara, Hamilton, Halton, Norfolk): Season often opens mid-May
• Central Ontario (Simcoe, Durham, Peel): Typically late May
• Eastern Ontario (Ottawa, Lanark, Leeds & Grenville): Late May to mid-June
• Southwestern Ontario (Oxford, Middlesex, Elgin): Mid to late May

Unlike strawberries or apples, rhubarb can sometimes be harvested twice in a season — an early spring harvest and a second flush in early summer. Check with your local farm for the most current availability.

Where to Go Rhubarb Picking in Ontario

Rhubarb farms are scattered across the province. Here are some of the best regions to look, along with links to find farms near you:

Simcoe County

Simcoe County is a go-to destination for spring u-pick farms of all kinds, and rhubarb is no exception. Just north of the GTA, it’s an easy day trip for Toronto-area families looking for a taste of early summer on the farm. 👉 Find farms in Simcoe County → pickyourownontario.ca/category/simcoe/

Durham Region

Durham is one of the most accessible regions from Toronto’s east end, with farms in and around Oshawa, Pickering, and Clarington that often grow rhubarb alongside their early berry crops. 👉 Find farms in Durham County → pickyourownontario.ca/category/durham/

Norfolk County

Known as Ontario’s Garden, Norfolk County has rich growing conditions that make it ideal for early spring crops. Several farms here grow rhubarb alongside their strawberry and asparagus crops, making for a perfect early-season farm haul. 👉 Find farms in Norfolk County → pickyourownontario.ca/category/norfolk/

Halton & Hamilton

The Halton and Hamilton areas offer several family-friendly farms with spring u-pick options. Many farms in this region combine rhubarb with early strawberry picking, so you can often get both in a single visit in June. 👉 Find farms in Halton County → pickyourownontario.ca/category/halton/

Eastern Ontario & Ottawa

Eastern Ontario farms tend to open a little later in the season, but rhubarb is a reliable spring staple in this region. Ottawa-area farms often combine rhubarb with early spring vegetables, making for a great farm market experience. 👉 Find farms in Ottawa → pickyourownontario.ca/category/ottawa/

What to Bring to a U-Pick Rhubarb Farm

• A sharp knife or garden shears — some farms prefer you cut rather than pull the stalks
• Gloves (optional) — rhubarb leaves contain oxalic acid and can irritate sensitive skin
• A bag or box — rhubarb stalks are long and sturdy, so a simple grocery bag works perfectly
• Closed-toe shoes — farm fields can be muddy or uneven in spring
• Cash — many small Ontario farms are cash only
• A cooler or insulated bag — keeps stalks fresh on the drive home

How to Pick Rhubarb the Right Way

• Choose stalks that are firm and deeply coloured — bright red or crimson stalks are at peak ripeness
• Thicker stalks tend to be more flavourful and less stringy than very thin ones
• Cut or twist at the base — grasp the stalk near the base and pull with a gentle twisting motion, or use a knife to cut cleanly
• Leave at least a third of the plant’s stalks behind — this keeps the plant healthy and often allows for a second harvest
• Green stalks are also edible — they’re just more tart than red ones
• Aim for stalks between 25–40cm (10–16 inches) long — these are at peak eating quality

What to Do With Your Rhubarb Harvest

Rhubarb has a delicious, tart flavour that pairs beautifully with sweet ingredients. Here are the most popular ways to use a fresh haul:

• Strawberry-rhubarb pie — the classic Ontario combination. Perfectly timed since both crops are available in June
• Rhubarb jam or compote — simple to make and lasts for months in the fridge or freezer
• Rhubarb crisp or crumble — a quick weeknight dessert that lets the flavour shine
• Rhubarb simple syrup — steep chopped rhubarb with sugar and water for a versatile drink mixer or pancake topping
• Freeze it — chop into 2cm pieces, freeze flat on a baking sheet, then bag for use in baking all year long
• Rhubarb sauce — cook down with a little sugar for a topping over ice cream, yogurt, or pork

Frequently Asked Questions About Rhubarb Picking in Ontario

Is rhubarb a fruit or a vegetable?

Botanically, rhubarb is a vegetable — it’s the stalk of a plant, not a fruit. However, it’s almost always used in sweet applications like pies, jams, and desserts, which is why most people think of it as a fruit.

How much rhubarb should I pick?

A good rule of thumb is 1–2 pounds per person for fresh use. If you’re planning to bake or freeze, pick more — 4–6 pounds gives you plenty to work with. Rhubarb freezes beautifully, so there’s rarely such a thing as too much.

How long does fresh rhubarb last?

Fresh rhubarb stalks last about 1–2 weeks in the fridge when stored loosely wrapped. Remove the leaves immediately (they’re toxic) and don’t wash until you’re ready to use. For longer storage, chop and freeze — frozen rhubarb keeps for up to a year.

Do I need to book ahead for rhubarb picking?

Most rhubarb farms don’t require reservations, but it’s always worth calling or checking social media before you visit — availability can change quickly, especially later in the season.

Can I pick rhubarb if I’m pregnant?

The stalks are generally considered safe to eat in normal food quantities during pregnancy. However, large amounts of rhubarb are not recommended. As always, check with your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.

Find a U-Pick Rhubarb Farm Near You

Rhubarb season is short and sweet — and it’s happening right now across Ontario. Whether you’re planning a pie, a batch of jam, or just a fun spring outing, there’s a u-pick farm waiting for you. 👉 Find a U-Pick Farm Near You by County →

And follow us on Instagram @upickontario and Pinterest @upickontario for daily farm updates and seasonal tips!