4 days ago
Stop rhubarb from 'bolting' and getting too woody by doing one task in June
Rhubarb plants tend to grow their thickest and most succulent stalks in early June - but gardeners must pay attention to the plant in the next few weeks or they may not get any harvest at all
Rhubarb boasts its plumpest and most succulent stalks come early June, yet in the upcoming weeks gardeners should keep a keen eye on the plant's crown to secure a harvest. With rising temperatures, rhubarb may start bolting, a stress response where it stops yielding edible produce to focus on disseminating seeds.
When bolting occurs, rhubarb ceases to generate edible crops and shifts to sprouting slender woody flowers that significantly enfeeble the plant. However, Kimberly Killebrew, an avid gardener and creator of Daring Gourmet, has shared a simple trick to thwart bolting by removing any seeding pods promptly before they propagate.
She remarked: "Ideally, you really want to avoid letting your rhubarb plant even get to the point where there are flower stalks. "Initially, these long shoots start off as a seed pod at the base of the plant. As soon as you notice these seed pods, remove them."
Seed pods initially appear as tender green shoots encircling the crown of rhubarb, from which the stalks typically sprout, reports the Express. These shoots might boast red or pink striations, but their resemblance to a cabbage head or a clenched fist is unmistakable.
Fortunately, these seeding pods are remarkably delicate and can be effortlessly removed if identified swiftly. Upon encountering them, simply wield a knife or gardening shears to snip them off as near to the plant's base as attainable.
Should you spot any flower clusters, it's crucial to snip them off straight away, though be warned they can be quite stubborn, so ensure your garden shears are up to the task.
By removing the flowers and pods, your rhubarb will then channel all its vigour into producing the largest and most succulent stalks in time for a June harvest.
Kimberly advised: "With your seed pods and flower stalks removed, your rhubarb plant can now focus its energy and producing a delicious and healthy yield of edible rhubarb stalks.
"Continue checking your plant frequently for new seed pods and promptly remove them."
It's important to recognise that rhubarb typically starts bolting when under stress from hot weather, so regular watering is essential to prevent the soil from drying out.
Consider mulching your rhubarb or placing it in a shaded area if it's potted, as keeping the plant cool is key to safeguarding your crop.
Nonetheless, the most effective strategy for preserving rhubarb stalks is to inspect the plant every day, since early removal of any budding flowers greatly increases the chances of a successful growth.
