[Dan78]

its my second year for the rhubarb and its doing a LOT better this year!

Forced a small plant and had some already yum!

Question is how will i know when i can pick some more ? The others are growing really well and would like to taste some more!

is it right that they are only ready when the leaves pull off quite easily when you pull them ? Or should I be waiting till they turn pink ?

[Salmo]

Ideally pick rhubarb when the stems have grown to full length but the leaves are still a bit scrumpled. Earlier or later than this does not matter if you need one or two more to make enough for a crumble.

[Yorkie]

Just two words of caution, Dan; I see you mention that it's only the rhubarb's second year.  You shouldn't take many stems from it this year as it needs to build its strength up for the long-term.  I also note you say you've forced it.  This also weakens the plant so it will probably not do very well next year - if so, don't crop it next year and then it should be OK for the future.

[MoreWhisky]

Just a word about forcing , a newbie on our site a few weeks ago got some crowns which he promptly planted and put some buckets over the top. I explained at least let it move/settle in  lol. I dont ever force mine and have lovely crops ever yr.

I pick mine when the stalks are healthy looking and feel firm.

[katiekate]

PS. Apparently it's better to pick the stems from the base rather than cut the stalks off- I only say as I didn't know until recently..

[Yorkie]

That is correct Katie.  You pull them from the base and twist slightly to help them detach from the crown.

[SoniaBA]

I never force mine either, but i do give it a good layer of well rotted manure. My neighbour has some and she dosen't cover them with anything. Mine are older than hers and are at the moment MUCH bigger. (she has around 4 small stalks I have already had a large crumble (due to high winds breaking stalks) and have loads left. 2 mini bushes of rhubarb  I even get a 'glut' of rhubarb that i give to my neighbour AND freeze the rest.

[Dan78]

Thanks for all the replies and advice

I planted quite a bit (and a bit too close) last year as my nan was forced to sell her house.. It had been supplying rhubarb for years!! So im not too worried about the little bit i forced. The others have been treated with nice manure and are being looked after.

Pulled 3 stems today but wont be taking much this year. There are loads of leaves but the stems are not that long!

Tasted lovely in a crumble though

[Sharon]

I have 2 crowns cut from a very old crown 3 years ago.  I have already pulled enough for about 10 family sized crumbles, without forcing