Rhubarb

Rhubarb Timperley Early

• Position: full sun
• Soil: any, except waterlogged soils
• Rate of growth: average
• Other features: the leaves may cause severe discomfort if ingested; the scarlet leaf stalks are excellent for making pies, jams and wine
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  One of the earliest rhubarb varieties which can be ready outside as early as February. It is also suitable for forcing if you want to produce an even earlier crop and will provide you with succulent, red-based pink stems with a delicious flavour.
  
  
• Garden care: Dig the area in autumn, incorporating a good amount of compost or well-rotted manure. Rake in a general fertiliser, such as Growmore in to the area just before planting. Keep plants well watered and remove any flowering shoots that appear. Mulch the crowns in January or February. It is best to allow new plants to become established during the first year before harvesting your first crop, so wait for 12 - 18 months before you start pulling the sticks.