Rhubarb in wrong place

[donlottie]

Recently took over a derelict plot and found 3 Rhubarb plants set right next to an old nic-nacked shed. Should I move these and where is best for them to live. Gave some stalks to the in-laws who reported back that they were very sour and very woody. What can I do about this?

[donlottie]

[froglets]

Hi DL,

There are several older threads on moving rhubarb, so worth reading through them first.

SHort answer, wait till the top growth has died down & the roots have stored as much energy as poss for next year.  It prefers a rich soil that doesn't dry out and being fed.

Not being fed & harvested will have had a bit to do with the woodieness - sourness - that's the best bit!

[Fork]

Do you need to move the plants at all?

Can you not plan your garden around them?

I notice you ask should they be moved.They dont need to be if you are happy with them there.

[calendula]

probably a bit too late to be picking rhubarb and that's why it has gone woody - plonk a generous amount of manure on it over winter and it will return in kind  :)

[donlottie]

I took all the stalks off it last week but I have noticed new heads appearing on them all and also new leaves, should this be happening if its late in the season?? Plants are right next to the door of my rotting shed and I have to step over them. I am planning on having that area reserved for fruit bushes so the Rhubarb could stay, for now.

[froglets]

General advice is to stop pulling rhubarb from Aug onwards and let it grow on to build up it's strength for next year

[artichoke]

I inherited rhubarb in 2001 and moved it to a more convenient place. Massive great orange roots, I don't think you could kill them if you tried.

It did too well in new place and got in the way, so 2 years ago I decided to control it by putting it under a large old apple tree right next to the trunk, ie competition from apple tree roots and not much sunlight. It is absolutely thriving.

I must have left a piece in the ground, because where I cleared it from also has a large, thriving set of leaves that I have been too soft-hearted to clear away.

[donlottie]

Many thanks for your advice froglet will leave well alone. artichoke - hope you like Rhubarb as it sounds like you have a Rhubarb farm starting!! I personally cant stand the stuff but lots of my family do so it will be part of my plot, so I think rather than have lots all over the place I will keep it where it is for now. Thanks for all your help guys.

On a happier note I inherited some carpets which will do nicely for my paths!!!