Victoria

Description
This variety is truely one of the best that are available on the market, once they are established you will have heavy crops year after year. Excellent flavour of both sharp and sweet flesh, none stringy and produces heavy yields.

Harvest
March to August 2 years after planting. You can have a couple of stems after the first year but its best to wait. To harvest rhubarb hold at the base of the stalk and pull out and away from the plant.

Growing Instructions
Plant 75cm to 1m apart in well drained soil and partial shade. Keep well watered until established and in dry weather. In the Autumn remove all the dead leaves and keep weed free. After the first spring remove any flowered heads and keep weed free. After 2nd spring you can harvest but make sure to leave at least 5 growing stems.ForcingTo force the Rhubarb for an earlier, but not as heavy crop, it must be 3 years old or more. Cover it with a container or waterproof box with a lid or even sacks that block out any light, this will force the rhubarb upwards. Check regularly in the box/container/sack and pull the stems that are ready. They will be a stunning bright red/pink colour with a beautiful sweet taste. You can do this right up to March/April time then remove the box/container or sack and leave to grow on as normal.

Tip
Don't force the same Rhubarb plant two years in a row, alternate with another plant. The Rhubarb leaves are toxic so stick to eating the stems only.