[gypsy]

I only have a small rhubarb patch but seem to have enough to feed all the extended family, neighbours, colleagues and still have some to freeze.

[skywalker]

I too put my rhubarb (Timperley) in about 18 months ago and since then have just left it to build a bit of strength. Went to the lottie today for an "inspection" so I could plan my day tomorrow (ie weeding or seeding  ) haven't been down for just over a week and was amazed to see how well the rhubarb has taken off. I picked my first half a kilo (after I took the leaves off and chopped it up). Its now sat in a bowl of sugar now and I will leave it overnight as I'm hoping for some lovely Rhubarb Jam. Its my first produce of 2010 so I'm getting a bit excited 

[8doubles]

Just been and pulled half a dozen stalks , it`s really growing with the hot weather now some stalks are 40mm wide.

It likes it by the compost heap so we get far more than we can use.

Will brew some anti-caterpillar potion with the leaves as well.

[Spana]

We've had a couple of pickings.  We grow a variety called Raspberry Red. It is the sweetest, reddest, tenderest rhubarb ever, even later in the year.   

[dno71]

8doubles tell me more about this anti caterpiller potion you are going to brew. I had very bad caterpiller problem last year keen to avoid a repeat of that!

[8doubles]

Here you go , http://www.rhubarbinfo.com/rhubarb-uses.html

[corndolly]

A pic of our rhubarb !

[kermit]

Sorry to hijack questions:  we sowed ours from seed last spring and its now well established, but was only put in final position over the winter.  Can I harvest some now or should I wait until next year?  Also, when are the stalks ready to harvest - mine are all very green and not overly long?

cheers

[BelgianPhil]

You'll have to leave it this year. If you pick now you'll exhaust the plant before it had a chance to put its energy into its root system.

[skywalker]

Update. 2 Jars of yummy rhubarb jam. Followed the Rhubarb & Ginger recipe suggestion from this site with the addition of a bit of pectin. Result - Amazing! My wife (who doesnt like rhubarb incidentally) is so impressed she is taking some in to work to show off to her friends.  (Very pleased with himself)