Rhubarb advice

[wollyanna]

I've been on the search site but not managed to find my answer. I have like many others bought some Rhubarb(in packets) and planted them in pots of compost. My query is a )do I water fearing them rotting off b) would they be better in a cold frame ,cold greenhouse or just standing outside.c)Should I take the bull by the horns and plant them in a bed ? They have little buds and one has the start of some leaves but neither have any root. Thanks to all you experts.

[Capsid]

Rhubarb are fairly tough. I planted mine outside straightaway but I went through several anxious months waiting for them to grow. The small crowns bought in packets are quite small so maybe you could grow them for the first year in a container to get them established and then plant out next year, as long as you don't forget to water them.

[Flummery]

I'd bang 'em in the ground. I'm a hard biddy! They will possibly not show their noses for a while - my 10 year old plants still aren't through but they aren't a particularly early variety.