Flowering Rhubarb

Flowering rhubarb is a common site at this time of year.  If the rhubarb flower is left on the plant,  the root will be weakened & the stalks will be weak and thin.

rhubarb-flowering

Some people like to see rhubarb  flowers in the garden. 

rhubarb-flower

But if you are after rhubarb for the kitchen, the rhubarb flowers should be removed as soon as the flower buds  are seen.

flower-bud-rhubarb

 To remove the flower stem:

• Hold the flowering-stalk close to the ground
• Pull upwards twisting the stalk

• 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 flowering rhubarb looks pretty, it is not good for the production of rhubarb to eat.