RHUBARB TIMPERLEY EARLY

Planting Information for Rhubarb 'Timperley Early' Bulbs

Rhubarb 'Timperley Early' is one of the earliest cropping rhubarb varieties, producing tender and flavorful stalks as early as February when forced. It is an excellent choice for gardeners looking for a reliable, low-maintenance perennial that thrives in a wide range of climates. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to plant, care for, and harvest Rhubarb 'Timperley Early'.

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How to Plant Rhubarb 'Timperley Early'

Best Time to Plant

• Autumn Planting: October to December for strong root establishment.
• Spring Planting: February to March if the ground was too wet in autumn.

Choosing the Right Location

• Full Sun to Partial Shade: Prefers a sunny spot but can tolerate some shade.
• Well-Drained Soil: Avoid waterlogged soil, as rhubarb dislikes excessive moisture.
• pH Level: Prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0).

Soil Preparation

• Deep and Rich Soil: Loosen the soil to a depth of at least 30 cm to allow for strong root growth.
• Add Organic Matter: Incorporate well-rotted manure or compost to enrich the soil.
• Avoid Fresh Manure: Can cause excessive leafy growth at the expense of the stalks.

Planting the Crowns (Bulbs)

• Spacing: Space plants 75-90 cm apart to allow ample room for growth.
• Depth: Plant crowns so the growing buds are just above the soil surface.
• Firming the Soil: Press the soil around the roots but do not compact it too much.

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Caring for Rhubarb 'Timperley Early'

Watering

• Regular Watering: Keep the soil moist, especially during dry spells in summer.
• Avoid Overwatering: Too much water can cause root rot.

Fertilisation

• Spring Feeding: Apply a balanced fertiliser or compost around the base in early spring.
• Avoid Excess Nitrogen: Too much nitrogen encourages leafy growth rather than strong stalks.

Mulching

• Retains Moisture: Apply a layer of straw, compost, or bark mulch around the base.
• Suppresses Weeds: Helps prevent weed competition.

Pest and Disease Control

• Slugs and Snails: Use organic deterrents to protect young shoots.
• Crown Rot: Prevent by avoiding overwatering and ensuring good drainage.

Forcing Rhubarb

• Encourages Early Harvest: Cover crowns with a forcing pot or large bucket in winter.
• Harvest in Late Winter: Forced rhubarb is tender and sweet but should not be forced every year.

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Harvesting and Storage

When to Harvest

• First-Year Rule: Avoid harvesting in the first year to allow the plant to establish.
• From Second Year Onwards: Harvest from early spring to mid-summer (February to July).
• Stop Harvesting in Summer: This allows the plant to recover and store energy.

How to Harvest

• Twist and Pull: Gently pull stalks from the base rather than cutting them.
• Leave Some Stalks: Never harvest more than one-third of the plant at a time.

Storage Tips

• Short-Term Storage: Keep fresh rhubarb in the fridge for up to a week.
• Long-Term Storage: Rhubarb freezes well when chopped into pieces.

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Conclusion

Rhubarb 'Timperley Early' is a fantastic early-season crop that rewards gardeners with delicious stalks year after year. With proper planting, care, and harvesting techniques, you can enjoy homegrown rhubarb for cooking, baking, and preserving. Happy gardening!

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