Allotments 4 All

Produce => Edible Plants => Topic started by: topman on April 02, 2009, 12:07:51

Title: Rhubarb going to seed
Post by: topman on April 02, 2009, 12:07:51
Hi All
Just took over a new allotment that has some well established early Rhubarb on it which seems to be producing lots of large seed heads is this normal and if not will it have any affecton the quality of the Rhubarb.
                 Topman
Title: Re: Rhubarb going to seed
Post by: Old bird on April 02, 2009, 12:14:48
Funnily enough I have seen quite a few rhuabarbs going to seed so far this year.  How weird!

I think - and I am not sure - that you need to remove the flower spike and let the flower rest for this year. 

Probably best to wait for an expert as I am not too sure of my facts here!

O B

;D
Title: Re: Rhubarb going to seed
Post by: saddad on April 02, 2009, 12:15:28
Established rhubarb plants will produce large seed heads without affecting the plant. Don't worry. Snap off when over a foot tall if they bother you, but as was said recently don't confuse emerging flower buds with the normal domes of growing points. (Hence leave until a foot tall when it will be obvious).  :)
Title: Re: Rhubarb going to seed
Post by: Twoflower on April 02, 2009, 12:44:01
if you saved the seeds would they grow true?
Title: Re: Rhubarb going to seed
Post by: saddad on April 02, 2009, 13:16:58
I've never thought about it... as they are very like Dock flowers and they come true I would think so... but there are several distinct varieties so crossing should be possible...  most people propagate from root/bud cuttings... :)