RHUBARB-VICTORIA (SALE)

How to Grow Victoria Rhubarb

1. Choose a sunny location with full sun to partial shade, and where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
2. The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter.  Use a garden fork or tiller to loosen the soil to a depth of 30-40 cm (12-16 inches) and remove any rocks, roots, or debris. Add a layer of compost or well-rotted manure to the soil and mix well.
3. Plant Victoria Rhubarb crowns if you want to harvest in the first year. The crowns is made up of roots and attached bud.  Plant the crowns in early spring, about 90 cm (3 feet) apart.  Make a hole in the soil about 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) deep and place the crown with the bud facing upwards.
4. If planting seeds in trays, sow about 1cm (0.4 inches) deep, 2-3 inches apartand, and lightly cover them with soil.  Or sow in 2-3 inch pots filled with a high-quality seed-starting mix.  Keep the soil temperature between 15-20°C (59-68°F) for optimal germination.
5. Victoria Rhubarb requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.  Water deeply once a week, or more often during hot and dry weather. Aim for about 2.5 cm (1 inch) of water per week.
6. Fertilise your Victoria Rhubarb regularly as it is a heavy feeder and fertilisation aids its growth.  Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring and again in early summer, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Your Victoria Rhubarb is ready to harvest when the stalks are about 30 cm (12 inches) long and the leaves are fully unfurled. Pull the stalks gently from the plant, twisting slightly to detach them from the crown.  Do not cut the stalks, as this can damage the plant.
8. Remember to discard the leaves.

Additional Growing Tips

• Seed Preparation: Soak the seeds before planting, in warm water for 2-4 hours. This softens the seed coat and boosts germination rates.
• Cold Stratification (Optional): Some gardeners recommend cold stratification for 2-4 weeks by placing seeds in a damp paper towel inside a zip-lock bag in the refrigerator. This mimics natural winter conditions and improves germination in certain climates.
• Timing: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date in your area. This gives the seedlings a head start before transplanting outdoors.
• Sowing Seeds:  In containers or direct in the garden.  Use 2-3 inch pots filled with a high-quality seed-starting mix. Sow seeds about 1 cm (0.4 inches) deep and lightly cover them with soil.  If planting directly into trays, sow seeds 2-3 inches apart.
• Temperature: Keep the soil temperature between 15-20°C (59-68°F) for optimal germination.
• Watering: Water consistently to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
• Germination:  Germination usually takes 14-21 days.
  Place the pots in a location with bright light (e.g., a sunny windowsill or under grow lights). Provide good air circulation to prevent mold or fungus issues.
• Transplanting Seedlings:  After the last frost, transplant seedlings outdoors once they are 6-8 weeks old and about 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) tall.
• Spacing: Space plants 90 cm (36 inches) apart in rows spaced 120 cm (48 inches) apart. Rhubarb is a large plant that needs room to grow.
• Growing Conditions:  Choose a location with full sun to partial shade.
• Soil: Rhubarb thrives in rich, well-draining, moisture-retentive soil.  Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.  Ideal soil pH is 5.5-6.8, but it can tolerate up to 7.0.
• Watering: Water consistently, especially during dry spells. Aim for moderate to high soil moisture levels.
• Mulching: Add mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. 
• Fertilising: Feed the plants in early spring and mid-summer with a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) or side-dress with compost.  Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of stalks.
• Pest and Disease Management: Watch for pests like slugs and diseases like crown rot.  Good drainage and air circulation help prevent problems.
• Patience for Harvest:  Do not harvest during the first year of growth (unless you planted crowns). Allow the plant to focus on root and crown development.  In the second year, harvest lightly by picking a few stalks. From the third year onward, you can enjoy a full harvest.

Heritage of Rhubarb Victoria

Victoria Rhubarb is a heritage variety that has been cultivated in England since the 1830s. It is named after Queen Victoria, who was said to be particularly fond of rhubarb. Victoria Rhubarb is known for its bright red stalks and tart flavour, which make it a popular ingredient in pies, jams, and other desserts. Growing your own Victoria Rhubarb is a great way to enjoy this classic variety and add a delicious and unique flavour to your cooking.

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