New rubarb plant

[tim&fatima]

We planted our new rubarb plant back in March. But we were either told, or it was on the instructions, Not to use any of it in the first year?
Can anyone shed some light on this, it is growing really well there are many large stems coming from it, and basically I can't wait til next year!

[MINESAPINT]

It is to allow the crown/root to gain strength. Pretty much the same as asparagus which you do not pick for 2 or 3 years! If you pull a few stalks and enjoy a rhubarb crumble or two I would like to bet it will come to no harm. Just keep it well fed and watered particularly if we have any dry spells.

[Thomzo]

I'd pull the odd stalk, especially if the leaf is a bit tatty as it won't be doing much good. Just don't overdo it.

Zoe

[tim&fatima]

Cheers guys, thanx for the replies. I may nick a couple of stems when no-one is looking