When your rhubarb goes to seed, or bolts, it can be due to heat, such as an unusually warm period in spring. Or, it can happen due to stress, such as not enough water. Certain varieties also tend to bolt more than others. When you see a flower stalk forming, you might want to cut it off at the base (don’t twist the stalk; instead, use a knife or pruning shears to make a clean cut on these tougher stalks). This way, the plant can focus its energy on forming leaf stalks. To help prevent bolting, you can add mulch to keep roots cool during warm spells. Be sure that the plant is getting enough water, light, and nutrients, and isn’t overcrowded.
When your rhubarb goes to seed, or bolts, it can be due to heat, such as an unusually warm period in spring. Or, it can happen due to stress, such as not enough water. Certain varieties also tend to bolt more than others. When you see a flower stalk forming, you might want to cut it off at the base (don’t twist the stalk; instead, use a knife or pruning shears to make a clean cut on these tougher stalks). This way, the plant can focus its energy on forming leaf stalks. To help prevent bolting, you can add mulch to keep roots cool during warm spells. Be sure that the plant is getting enough water, light, and nutrients, and isn’t overcrowded.