[Christo]

Hi all,

Quick question about rhubarb.

I planted some new rhubarb crowns this year and I note that all the recommendations say
not to pick any in the first year.

My plants are putting out some fantastic stalks (over 1ft long now) that are not standing up but just lying flat on the ground.

Do you think I should just leave them or twist them off?

Many thanks for your help.

C

[mumofstig]

I'd leave them for now, they're all the plant has to feed it at the moment. They may look untidy but, until they actually die, they work 

[Christo]

Thanks MoS. Much appreciated.

C

[Trillium]

Is the soil dry or damp? On young rhubarb plants a bit of water can make a huge difference. In their third year I stop watering because the roots are strong and deep enough to fend for themselves.

And definitely leave those flopped stalks alone this year.

[parttimer]

I planted 3 crowns last year and temptation got the better of me and I picked enough stalks for a couple of crumbles  they do not seemed to have suffered.

[Christo]

I planted 3 crowns last year and temptation got the better of me and I picked enough stalks for a couple of crumbles  they do not seemed to have suffered.

Temptation, temptation. I must resist.... 

[parttimer]

I planted 3 crowns last year and temptation got the better of me and I picked enough stalks for a couple of crumbles  they do not seemed to have suffered.

Temptation, temptation. I must resist.... 

Do it..... do it ......  Ummmmmm Rhubarb Crumble