Gardeners with rhubarb told to do one key thing now or risk 'major problems'

Rhubarb lovers, rejoice! Not only is rhubarb a delightfully tasty addition to your culinary arsenal, but it's also incredibly versatile in the . Rhubarb can thrive just as well in pots as it does in soil beds, provided they bask in plenty of sunshine and are watered regularly.

Garden enthusiasts should also keep up with some essential maintenance tasks, especially three critical steps in . expert and Crown Pavilions CEO Luke Dejahang emphasises the importance of tidying up rhubarb plants for "optimal growth." His advice is simple yet effective: "Clear the crowns to remove any old leaves or weeds and debris surrounding the plant."

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But that's not all – green thumbs must be vigilant in removing flower stalks at first sight to focus the plant's energy on those enticing stalks. Additionally, a generous layer of mulch around the base will do wonders in keeping the moisture locked in and the pesky weeds out, just be careful not to smother the crown.

And for those long-time rhubarb growers, there's an essential bit of upkeep you shouldn't miss: dividing mature plants. Luke explained the benefits of this practice: "If the plant is around three to four years old, it is advised to divide it as this will encourage new rhubarb growth."

For UK-based gardeners, the dormant period from late autumn into early spring, specific from November to March, is the perfect window for rhubarb division.

While meteorological calendars have summer starting on June 1, keen gardeners mark the changeover from spring around May, setting their sights on the warmer months ahead.

Given that we're already into April, it's advisable to get a move on if you want to reap the full benefits of splitting rhubarb. If you leave it much later in the month, you'll likely have to wait longer for a harvest than if you'd split in winter.

When it comes to nurturing your growing rhubarb plants, Luke suggests feeding them with a nitrogen-rich fertiliser "will give the plant a great boost and ensure strong, fruitful growth,".

A balanced fertiliser or organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure is recommended for use in spring.

For those currently forcing rhubarb, make sure the crowns are completely covered to block out light, encouraging the growth of tender, sweet stems. The gardening expert recommends regularly checking the soil every two to three weeks to ensure it is moist but not waterlogged and has a consistent boost of nutrients through compost or manure.

"In milder , you may see rhubarb growth be much faster, and you want to ensure that the stems are developing properly," said Luke.

When to harvest rhubarb

Rhubarb is ready to eat when the stalks are at least 10 inches long and have a flat surface. Luke explained: "The rule of thumb is that the deeper the red colour of the rhubarb is, the more flavoursome the stalks will be."

To ensure you grow the best fruits this year, it is recommended that you harvest early and pick the stalks when they are young and tender, which is usually between April and mid-July.

The green-fingered guru emphasised the correct way to harvest: "Grasp the stalks near the base and pull slightly to one side to avoid damaging the plant."

For those with newly planted rhubarb, the expert strongly advises against harvesting in the first year. Luke mentioned that letting them grow untouched helps robust roots to develop for sustained growth seasons ahead.