Growing Rhubarb

Rhubarb is a vegetable with a unique taste that makes it also a favourite when cooked with added sugar and put into pies and desserts. It originated in Asia over 2,000 years ago; initially cultivated for its medicinal qualities; it was not until the 18th century that rhubarb was grown for culinary purposes in Britain. Rhubarb is often commonly mistaken to be a fruit but rhubarb is actually a close relative of garden sorrel, and is therefore a member of the vegetable family. Rhubarb is rich in vitamin C and dietary fibre. Rhubarb leaves grow from the ground in early spring. In some countries, the leaves can grow up to a foot or more in width and length and the plant may grow to a height of several feet. The blade or green leaves of the plant are the part that is poisonous. They contain high concentrations of oxalic acid crystals, which can cause serious problems when eaten. These crystals can cause the tongue and throat to swell, preventing breathing. The edible petioles (stalks) can grow up to 18 in. (45cm) long, 1 to 2 in. (25mm-50mm) in diameter, generally somewhat hemispherical in cross section. These petioles are cut and used in pies, jams, jellies, sauces and juice. Rhubarb rhizomes and the crown persist for many years.

Sowing

While seeds can be sown, rhubarb is usually planted in roots or crown form.

Planting

A piece of root with at least one bud or root is planted with the crown just at soil level. Plant outdoors as soon as the soil can be worked. Rhubarb is hardy and will survive late spring frosts. If there is a really hard frost, the leaves and stalk could be damaged, but new ones will soon replace those that are damaged. Space two or three crowns of Rhubarb two to three feet apart and they will spread. Rhubarb tolerates a little crowding, but the stalks and leaves will grow bigger and healthier if you allow them plenty of space. A few plants are all you will need for a home garden.

Days to Maturity It is important to allow the plant to become well established before you begin to harvest the sticks; there they should not be taken until their second or third year after planting. Rhubarb can be picked in the spring as soon as the stalks are large enough to harvest in sufficient quantity for the recipe you are planning to use.

Soil Preparation

Before planting, select a location where they will not be disturbed for years and where they will not be in the way when tilling your garden in future years. Rhubarb can

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