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I'm having to relocate our chicken coop today and sadly this means moving our rhubarb too. I am pretty sure this is totally the wrong time to move rhubarb, but I have no choice. The plant went in last February and was not touched all last year, seems quite vigorous but I haven't cropped at all this year either.  Can anyone advise on what is the least worst process for moving it?

I will try to dig up the root with as little disturbance as possible. It is only moving a few feet so the conditions will remain identical. Should I remove some of the stems or leave them on? Should I fertilise/compost the new hole or try to keep the soil conditions as similar as possible to the current ones?

It'd be a shame to lose the patience and restraint I have shown in not picking it so far!

Thanks

Extra compost in hole and keep well watered I'd say

I moved a couple which I had grown from seed last year earlier in the year and was amazed at just how long the root was, so I would say excavate a large hole before actually digging out the plant, and mulch it up very well once moved, and lots and lots of water.   Mine are covered in a pile of straw and are finally looking happy. 

Are you sure you have to move it? 

Yes - it has to move - the coop has to sit exactly where the rhubarb is right now. I'm not looking forward to doing it, but I suppose I will just have to bite the bullet.

i wouldnt worry too much,rhubarb is pretty indestructible IMHO

Moved mine twice in a year with no loss of crop, mind you it is now next to the compost dalek.