Rhubarb (Latin name – Rheum rhabarbarum) often sends up flowering shoots at this time of the year.
- rhubarb-flower
If the rhubarb flower is left on the plant, the root will be weakened & the stalks will be weak and thin.
So, the rhubarb flowers should be removed as soon as they are seen.
- Hold the flowering-stalk close to the ground
- Pull upwards twisting the stalk
rhubarb-patch-March
The tendency to bolting depends on:
- variety – Victoria is more prone to flowering than other varieties
- maturity – older plants are more likely to flower than younger ones
- weather – prolonged high temperatures and drought promote flowering
- nutrition – lack of nutrients makes the plant want to seed
To encourage leaf growth and discourage flowering of rhubarb:
* divide the crowns every 4-5 years to keep them young
* water during the harvesting period if in drought conditions
* feed with well rotted manure or fertiliser in early spring and autumn
* do not totally strip the root – always leave 4 or 5 stalks.
* stop pulling stalks after July, to allow the leaves to feed the root
* do not force each crown more than once every two years
* provide an open, sunny site in the vegetable garden
Although the rhubarb flower may add charm to the vegetable garden, it is not good for the production of rhubarb to eat.
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