Anyone who decides to remove the magnificent rhubarb flower encourages the plant to grow more stems. The following lines explain why this is the case and how to do it.

That is why the rhubarb blossom is not desirable

The rhubarb plant is primarily interested in propagating. To this end, she dresses up in spring to attract the indispensable pollinators. Thanks to their magnificent flowers, there is a good chance that bees, bumblebees and colleagues will visit.

Rhubarb invests all its energy in the formation of its opulent flower and the subsequent seed pod. The growth of the coveted, refreshingly sour sticks falls by the wayside. Intervention by the gardener's hand is therefore essential, given the short harvest time.

Never cut off the rhubarb flower

Given the nature of a rhubarb plant, it should not be exposed to a knife at any time. The risk of subsequent formation of rot at the interface is great. This applies to the harvest as well as to the removal of the flower:

  • hold the flower with your fingers at the base of the stem
  • turn clockwise and pull at the same time
  • Do not trim off the remaining residue with a knife

If the rhubarb blossom is broken out in this way, the wound heals completely independently within a short time. The plant immediately redistributes its energy and the growth of the delicious stalks continues.

Rhubarb blossom is edible

The enchanting flower is far too good to carelessly dispose of in the compost. Clever hobby gardeners have found out that it is very easy to prepare. Recipes in connection with sweet sauces are doing the rounds. It's definitely worth a try.

If you do not trust this version of a use, use the rhubarb blossom for decoration in the house. In the vase, it will serve as a distinctive eye-catcher for a long time, as long as it is supplied with fresh water every 2 to 3 days.

Flowering does not mark the end of harvest time

The rumor persists and yet belongs in the realm of fables. It is not the blossom that signals the end of the season, but St. John's Day at the end of June. This circumstance applies regardless of whether you remove the rhubarb flower or not.

After June 24th, it is advisable to end the rhubarb harvest for two reasons: The plant should regenerate for the next season. The level of toxic oxalic acid increases in summer. The flower has nothing to do with this.

tips and tricks

If you find it difficult to do without the beautiful rhubarb blossom, plant Chinese rhubarb (Rheum palmatum) without further ado. This extravagantly blooming ornamental perennial harmonises perfectly with the other plants in the perennial border and makes it a little easier to forego flowering on the useful plants.

Category:

Vegetable garden