Question:
My rhubarb plants are blooming. What should I do?Answer:
The flower stalks should be promptly pulled and discarded. Plant vigor and next year’s production will be reduced if the plants are allowed to flower and set seed.
Flower formation may have been induced by stressful growing conditions, such as drought, extreme heat, or infertile soils. Age may also be a factor. Old plants tend to flower more than younger ones. Flower formation can be discouraged by following good cultural practices. Sprinkle ½ cup of an all-purpose garden fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, around each plant in early spring. Stop harvesting rhubarb in mid-June. Water rhubarb plants once a week during prolonged dry periods. Dig and divide large, old rhubarb plants in early spring or late summer.
Learn more about rhubarb in this article: Growing Rhubarb in Iowa