Harborne Hill Allotments Growing Advice and Tips

Rhubarb

Monthly Guide

January

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Soil Preparation

Rhubarb develops a deep root system and grows best in a rich, partially shaded, free-draining soil.


The soil should be dug overbefore planting and well rotted manure and/or compost incorporated.

When to Plant

Rhubarb is normally grown from crowns but some seeds are available.

Rhubarb is best planted in late autumn or early winter. It is possible to plant in early spring but there can be a problem with the crown drying out and dying.

Planting

The depth should be such that the top of the plant is at, or just below the soil surface. Gently firm the surrounding soil and water well. Spacing between plants should be about 75cm (30in) for smaller varieties, and up to 120cm (48in) for larger varieties.

Maintenance and Feeding

Allow rhubarb to establish for one year before taking your first harvest. Once established rhubarb requires little maintenance.

Rhubarb should be divided every five or six years during winter, when dormant. Each plant can be split into three or four separate crowns with a spade. Make sure each crown has an 'eye', or a large bud that will provide next year's shoots.

When to harvest 

Depending on the variety rhubarbcan be harvisted from April to August. Some varieties are now available which crop later in the year.                           


Varieties

Timperley Early - one of the best and earliest fruiting rhubarb varieties - you can expect to pick as soon as March each year!

Stockbridge Arrow - a heavy cropper from late April to July

Victoria - slightly later than Stockbridge Arrow.