Splitting rhubarb

[helensusan]

Not sure whether rhubarb is classed as a vegetable or fruit so this post may not be in the right section.

I've got an enormous clump of rhubarb that throws out "flowers" during the summer. Not sure whether this is a sign of it outgrowing itself Thought it may need splitting and was wondering whether this is a good time of year to do it. Its quite an early cropper and already there are nice new "sticks" coming up. Any tips and advice?

[rustylady]

Best time to split rhubarb is in winter after all the foliage has died back.

You will need a sharp spade, rhubarb roots can be enormous.

[Bigmallly]

There's a section here on Rhubarb division but just confirms what RL has already said.

BBC - Gardening - Gardening Guides - Techniques - Growing rhubarb

[mrbadexample]

Although it's best to split it when it's completely dormant, I can say from experience that you can still do it now and get away with it. Don't leave it much longer though!

And yes, it's a vegetable.

[helensusan]

Thanks to all for your valued advice.

[bojangles]

Im glad it's still ok to spilt as I acciedently dugged and spilt one of mine up today!! It wasnt where i put a post!! Dam it!! So I planted it again and prayed I havnt killed it!!