Rhubarb is really a spring crop. When the stalks are no longer fat and
juicy, but grow as thin stalks, the time has come to give it a rest.
Rhubarb can be pulled all summer if it is growing vigorously, and if at
least 25% of the stalks are left on the plant.
The rhubarb plant should be kept weed free, so that it can grow and feed
its roots. All damaged and discoloured leaves should be removed with
their stalks.
In the autumn, rhubarb appreciates a good covering of well rotted farm
yard manure.
Comments Off
Rhubarb (Latin name – Rheum rhabarbarum) often sends up flowering shoots at this time
of the year.
rhubarb-flower
The rhubarb flowers should be removed as soon as they are seen. Hold the
flowering-stalk close to the ground, and then pull upwards twisting the
stalk. If left, the flower will weaken the root, which will then produce
weak thin stalks.
The tendency to bolting depends on:
* the rhubarb 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
* poor nutrition
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
* The rhubarb is ready to produce shoots.
* Force it up, by creating a dark environment.
* Cover it with a chimneypot, dustbin, or straw.
straw covering rhubarb
forced rhubarb has long, tender, light coloured shoots
