The rhubarb is classed by some as a fruit, but as the stems are eaten I have put them in the vegetable section.
Native of Siberia, rhubarb is hardy, frost resistant and long lived. Rhubarb are normally cultivated from
crowns. It will survive quite poor conditions and without any proper care. Never eat the
leaves as they contain oxalic acid, which is poisonous.
Rhubarb prefer a sunny site, sheltered from north and east winds and remember one which can
remain undisturbed for several years. They are greedy feeders, so do not locate them to near trees
or hedges where they will be competing for food and moisture. Before planting the rhubarb prepare
the soil with plenty of organic material, as this needs to last several years. Also make sure all
perennial weeds have been removed from the site.
Crowns can be planted out in autumn or early spring. These should be available from garden centres
or nurseries. Large varieties will need to be spaced atleast 1.2 metres apart. Make sure the holes
are large enough to accommodate the roots comfortably and water if the soil is dry. If you have established
rhubarb crowns, which are at least five years old, they can be divided and replanted. This can also
be done in spring and autumn.
Another way to grow rhubarb is by seed, these can be sown under glass in the spring. When the seedlings
have a couple of primary leaves prick out and plant into 10cm pots. Towards late spring plant young
rhubarb plants outside, placing them about 15cms apart. They then can be transplanted to their final
beds in the following spring.
During the development of the plants they should not require any extra watering, but in the summer
months do not allow the soil completely dry out. If any flowering shoots appear in late spring, remove
them before the buds open. Once the plants are established, give an annual top dressing of fertilizer
in spring.
Do not be tempted to pull any stems during the first season - this would seriously weaken the plant.
Let the plant grow during the first year and establish a good healthy root system.
During the second season, pull only a few stems, ensuring that you only pull two per plant at any one time and that
at least five healthy stems always remain.
