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kay · 27-07-2011, 11:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by No Name

Janet wrote:
My rhubarb grows continuously.....
So does mine. What came up in spring is still in full leaf and won't die
back until autumn frost. But I don't eat it past the end of July.

But that's kind of the question, really ... given it died back and has
regrown, does the new stuff count as 'new' growth and the past-July rule
would't apply? Or, more likely, is it better not to take the chance ...

I suppose that depends on what governs the production of the oxalic acid. Does it build up steadily during the growth season, or is it a response to, eg, longer days and greater light levels?

If the former, you're OK, if the latter - could you try forcing it? - ie excluding light?

Of course, it might be a response to higher temperatures .... ;-)

Also, you may want to consider the overall strength of the plant - if it's had a nap in the middle of the year when it should have been photosynthesising like mad and building up root stores, then you may feel it's better to treat it nicely for the rest of the season.