Question From: S. Mann - MICHIGAN
Q: I hope your response on this site is better than the one you were on before because I never got a response previously...... What can be done to prevent rhubarb plants from going to seed, rather than producing plain stalks without seed pods? Both new and older rhubarb plants have been going to seed for the past few years and i cannot get them to stop doing this. Most are Victoria variety, but I have some Canadian also.
Sandye, when plants are under stress they quickly go to seed. Lack of water, heat. disease, there are many reasons for this to happen. Dividing the plants in half may be helpful. When replanting enrich the soil with good quality compost. Removing any forming seed pods at the base of the plant is also helpful. If you Google " how to keep rhubarb from going to seed" you will find all kinds of information including videos that show you how to remove the seed pods. Good Luck. Nancy and Happy Yardening.
