rhubarb question

[lindyloo]

this is probably a silly question; i know i cant take any stalks from my newly planted rhubarb in its first season, but just wondering, at the end of summer, when it is stopped growing and will die back anyway, could i take the stalks off then, to make some jam, or do i just let it die back naturally? just planning ahead- do i make some jam later using mine, or go "borrow" some stalks from my nephews house, which he acquired with a huge rhubarb patch which will be going to waste- they plan on digging it up eventually.

[Jeanied]

You want it to build up strength in the root Lindyloo - which means you let the leaves die back and return the goodness to the root at the end of the growing season. If you pick them before they shrivel you are taking the strength away, defeating the purpose.
Sounds like it's time to visit your nephew!

[daffydill]

being a great aunt why dont you help your nephew and make the jam with his rhubarb and offer to take the crowns when he digs them up im sure he'll thank you for the kind jesture

[Nicos]

You'll find they go very acidic towards the end of the growing season anyway.
Nah- leave them be and borrow a few stalks from elsewhere!

Next year you'll be glad you did!

[danmon_81]

glad i read this...i was so tempted to take a cutting off my new crown this season!

[lindyloo]

thanks all- will go begging then. cant offer to make jam for them, as the whole family have had great fun, for years, from saying how useless i am in the kitchen. this suits me fine, as i dont have to cook, wash up , anything!! and i dont want to dis-illusion them at this late stage! ( i am good at the outdooor creative and decorating stuff, so it all equals out in the end. ) got the kids some talking rocking horses earlier on, so it will be fine!