[DeborahC]

In getting 'started' I have been recommended that Rhubarb is a great place to begin.
I was wondering if anyone can recommend a good variety for compots and crumble as my daughter would love that (eventually).
I understand it will take a good couple of years before I get results and I am looking for a traditional UK variety as I would like to try and keep my plot as local as possible.

Thanks to everyone in advance.x

[DavidT]

Timperely Early is a good, reliable variety.

[Elaine G]

Thanks for asking that Deborah as I was going to post that too!
And thanks for the answer David.
Can anyone tell me also is it worthwhile growing from seed or better to invest in plants.
If the latter when is the best time to plant.
Sorry to hijack your thread 

Elaine

[DavidT]

Your local garden centre should have the new season crowns in  about now. Growing from crowns means you can have a partial crop in the second year. Get the crowns planted asap, using plenty of well rotted manure.

[Elaine G]

Thanks David.
I was looking for an excuse to go back to the garden centre!

Elaine

[DeborahC]

Timperely Early is a good, reliable variety.

Thanks for that David!

[Babstreefern]

If you're on an allotment ask anybody who has already got an established rhubarb patch if you could have a crown or two off them .  You will usually find that there's some going spare .  If so, they should be digging it in winter and then all you have to do is plant it .  Although bearing in mind, that you can't pick it until the following year .  And don't worry about leaving it before planting, you can actually leave it a few weeks before planting, it won't do it any harm.

[DeborahC]

If so, they should be digging it in winter and then all you have to do is plant it . 

I have been told that December is a good time/best time to plant?  Is that ok?

Dx

[Babstreefern]

Any time is ok, as long as its before February - so Nov, Dec or Jan is ok to plant.  As DavidT said, put in plenty of manure/compost and they'll come up.  When you have your crowns, it actually does them good to be left and let the frost have a go at them before planting.  It doesn't do them any harm.