Rhubarb in Kuggar

Prepare a permanent bed around 22nd October - 19th November. Remove perennial weeds thoroughly and work in plenty of well-rotted manure or garden compost, since the planting area will stay in use for years.

Plant dormant crowns or bare roots around 19th November - 10th January in a sunny or lightly shaded spot. Set the buds just at or below the surface, space them well apart, and water in thoroughly straight away.

Keep the planting area weed-free from 14th April while the crown settles in. Water during dry spells and do not harvest any stems this year, so the root can build strength.

Top-dress the crown from 30th January - 1st March with a thick layer of compost or a balanced organic fertiliser. Repeat this every 365 days to keep the plant productive.

Start harvesting from 13th May once the plant is well established in the second year. Pull or twist stems away cleanly, then stop by 12th July so the foliage can rebuild the crown for next year.

Once the leaves die back around 12th November - 10th December, cut old foliage to ground level and clear it away. This helps reduce pest and disease carry-over into the next season.