RHUBARB
This year at Chris & Maries Plant Farms we are offering our customer's the variety Rhubarb
GHASKINS PERPETUAL. Rhubarb adapts very well to all climatic zones and most soils that have
good drainage. It grows well in semi shaded positions or sunny spots. The preparation of their
beds should include the working in of manure and other fertilisers, as they are gross feeders. |
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PLANTING
The best time to plant is June to September.
The crowns should be planted 40-50 cm's apart. They should be watered regularly and during the
main cropping season which is spring until autumn they should be top dressed with a liquid
feed or nitrogen based fertiliser every 5-6 weeks.You should alsocut off any
flowers so that the plants energy is focused on producing
more stalks. |
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HARVESTING
When pulling stalks, hold the lower part of the plant firmly and cleanly pull it away from the
plant. Always pick the outside stalks first and leave the young centre stalks, this promotes
more growth.
Cut the leaves off as they can not be used. Stalks will keep in the fridge for 1-2 weeks but
are best cooked fresh. It is a good idea to store the stalks in a jar in your fridge. |
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AFTER HARVESTING
Cultivate the soil around each plant and refertilise in preparation for the spring growth.
Your rhubarb clumps should be lifted and divided every 3-4 years, during the winter
months. |
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