Blooming Rhubarb!

This is a first for me....I have never seen Rhubarb bloom before....

Ours bloomed when I was young in MN. At that point, my Mother would quit using it... not sure why tho, sorry.

I have heard to never let the rhubarb bloom as it ruins the rhubarb. I would assume it matures to fast then and becomes woody sooner?

Ves522

Yes, you're right. I just break off the flower stems as soon as they appear. I live in the same climate zone as you. We ate our first rhubarb of the year today. It starts late here; but growth is then explosive.

So with the blooms this size is too late to cut them off......? Honestly, we rarely eat it...I just Love the Plant!!

Cut off actually pull off the bloom stock to keep the plant alive longer for this season.Ernie

Thanks for the info...I need to keep it around long enough to make some bird baths and garden benches!!!

Linda makes birdbaths to good luck. Ernie

They have some out at The Barn (one of our local garden centers) made from Gunerra (sp) Leaves.....Multi-level fountain/bird baths, single ground baths and feeders and beautiful benches.....we are going to try and make some with the rhubarb leaves....should be fun....

How does one make birdbaths and other things from rhubarb please?

Here is a good link....

http://www.gardengatemagazine.com/extras/53birdbath1.php

That is very cool! I hope to see your finished projects...

How cool. Post a picture when you're done.

Zhinusmom ~ I came across this rhubarb info while looking for something else. Easily sidetracked here... lol

Thanks for the info....I have two plants....let one go for quite awhile due to fascination.....the second one I cut the blooms of fairly early......should be interesting to see them next year and compare.....

Interesting! Yes, I agree and hope you will let us know. Thanks... pod