garden rhubarb

Any fertile garden soil can be used for rhubarb as long as it is well-drained and in full sun. Crowns (""sets"") can be cropped for ten or more years, though division may be necessary after about five years. Plant crowns in November or December and up to the beginning of March if necessary. A spring mulch of well-rotted organic matter 7cm (2 1/2in) deep will help to retain moisture but do not bury the crowns. Plants will also respond to watering during prolonged dry periods in summer. Apply a general fertiliser in spring or summer . See also rhubarb cultivation

Remove any flowerheads that may develop. Allow the foliage to die back naturally in autumn then cut away the old leaves to expose the growing points to winter cold

Lift crowns between autumn and early spring (usually in November). Use a spade to divide the crown into sections each retaining a portion of the rhizome (thickened root) and at least one growing point. Sections from the outer part are better than the centres of old plants. Discard any old or decayed parts of the crown. Replant straight away or wrap in damp sacking until ready to plant

Aphids, slugs and snails may be problematic

Honey fungus and a virus may be troublesome