Rhubarb is an attractive hardy perennial with large leaves and pink, red or greenish leaf stalks. It is a perennial plant that will provide loyal service year after year.

How To Grow

Rhubarb can be grown from seed, but it's more common to plant dormant crowns between autumn and spring. Dig a hole slightly wider and deeper than the crown then spread out the roots and plant so the tip of the crown is just visible above the soil. Fill around the crown with the soil and firm. Just before the buds break into full growth, add a 2.5cm layer of compost, leaf mould or well-rotted manure around the crown of the plant, taking care to leave the buds themselves clear. Water regularly in dry spells to keep it moist and actively growing until autumn.

How/When To Harvesting

Do not harvest during the first year after planting, the initial 12 months are about establishing a good root system and bulking out the young crowns . Remove a few stems the next year, then up to a third or half from then on, leaving some to keep the plant in active growth. To remove, hold the stalk at the base and ease it out of the ground.