Rhubarb plant should I cut back or not

[kennethc]

Hi all

I have 2 rhubarb plants on the plant are look like they're good to pull and eat - I'm going by the size and colour of the stalks.

Given it's November, will the stalks be OK to eat and will I do any damage to the plant by cutting back the stalks at this time of year?

Any advice greatly appreciated!

Many thanks.

Kenneth

[Aberdeenplotter]

The frost will destroy these stalks anyway shortly

[Bill Door]

Ok two points about this.

Assuming you are in the UK.

One, I would not recommend trying to eat the stalks as they are likely to be very tough and stringy (after its best by date). If you do try please ensure that you do not include any leaf tops, including the ribs from the stalks to the leaf. There is likely to be a build up of oxalic acid in the stalks so it may have an effect on your stomach.

Two, leave the stalks on the plant to die back naturally. Any goodness will go back into the root for next years crop. You could add a bit of compost to the stalks but do not cover the top of the rhubarb as it does not like it.

As a suggestion next year consider picking enough stalks with extra to freeze throughout the year. I do not pick rhubarb after July. To freeze cut the cleaned stalks into 5 cm lengths and lay on a baking tray and place in the freezer (do not attempt to cook). When frozen place in a plastic "zip" bag and put back into the freezer until needed. This is ok for crumbles or pies/tarts, can be used in compots after cooking in wine and honey.

regards

Bill

[Ryleh]

Do you know what variety of Rhubarb you have?

Poulton's pride for example crops 10 months a year (with forcing i think) and you can still harvest it up to and including November. So if you have that then a last harvest should be fine.

Most other varieties im aware of will have stopped producing by now and you'd be better off letting the stalks and leaves die back naturally so the crowns can conserve energy for next year.

[kennethc]

Many thanks for your comprehensive reply Bill, it's much appreciated!