This easy to grow variety with tender strawberry-red stalks can be harvested from early summer enjoying even heavier yields again from September. Bright pink stalks are tender and sweet and are excellent for tarts, pies, jam, and wine. Height 60cm. Spread 120cm. Sun or part shade. Moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil.
Rhubarb ‘Sanvitos Summer’ is a delicious and easy-to-grow variety known for its vibrant, tender strawberry-red stalks. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, this plant thrives with minimal care and rewards you with heavier yields in early summer and again in September. Follow this comprehensive planting and aftercare guide to ensure your Rhubarb ‘Sanvitos Summer’ grows strong and healthy, providing you with an abundant harvest.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: The ideal time to plant Rhubarb ‘Sanvitos Summer’ is in early spring when the soil has warmed. Planting at this time helps the plant establish its roots before the growing season begins, ensuring a strong foundation for healthy growth and productive harvests.
Autumn: If planting in spring isn’t possible, early autumn is also a good time to plant Rhubarb ‘Sanvitos Summer.’ Planting in autumn allows the plant to settle in before winter, promoting stronger growth in the following year.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Rhubarb ‘Sanvitos Summer’ thrives best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Choose a location where the plant will receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. More sunlight results in healthier plants and a more abundant harvest.
Soil: This variety of rhubarb requires moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil. It is crucial to ensure the soil is not waterlogged, as this can cause root rot. Incorporate organic matter, such as compost, into the soil to improve drainage and fertility.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole that is wide enough to accommodate the root ball of Rhubarb ‘Sanvitos Summer’ comfortably. The hole should be about 30cm deep to allow room for the plant’s large roots to spread.
Soil Preparation: Mix compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to enrich it and ensure the plant receives the necessary nutrients for optimal growth.
Planting: Place the plant in the hole with the crown (where the leaves and roots meet) just slightly above the soil level. Fill the hole with soil, gently firming it down to remove air pockets.
Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil and provide initial moisture to the roots. Keep the soil consistently moist during the first few weeks to encourage root establishment.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Once established, Rhubarb ‘Sanvitos Summer’ requires regular watering, especially during dry spells. Ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply to encourage the roots to grow deeper and establish themselves.
Dormant Season: During the winter, reduce watering as the plant goes dormant. Only water if the soil becomes overly dry.
Feeding
Spring: In early spring, apply a balanced fertilizer or well-rotted manure to give Rhubarb ‘Sanvitos Summer’ a strong start. This will promote healthy new growth and robust stalk production throughout the season.
Mid-Summer: A light feeding in mid-summer can support continued growth and encourage the plant to produce more tender stalks. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of the stalks.
Pruning
Harvesting Stalks: In the first year, it’s best to allow Rhubarb ‘Sanvitos Summer’ to establish itself without harvesting any stalks. In subsequent years, you can begin harvesting when the stalks are 30cm or longer. Always remove the stalks by gently pulling them from the base. Never cut them, as this can damage the plant.
Autumn Cleanup: After the growing season ends, cut back any dead foliage to ground level. This helps the plant prepare for winter and reduces the risk of pests and disease.
Mulching
Spring: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of Rhubarb ‘Sanvitos Summer’ in spring. Mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature, especially during hot periods.
Winter Protection: In colder months, add an extra layer of mulch to protect the roots from frost damage. Use organic materials such as straw or leaves to provide insulation.
Supporting the Plant
Staking: Rhubarb ‘Sanvitos Summer’ does not generally require staking due to its sturdy growth habit. However, if the plant becomes particularly large or if you’re growing it in windy areas, you may want to use supports to prevent damage from strong winds.
Final Tips
Rhubarb ‘Sanvitos Summer’ is a low-maintenance plant that yields delicious, tender stalks throughout the growing season. By following the planting and care guidelines, you can enjoy a continuous harvest of vibrant, strawberry-red stalks, perfect for tarts, pies, jams, and even wine. Keep the plant in a sunny spot with well-drained soil, and provide regular watering and light feeding to ensure it thrives.
Incorporating Rhubarb ‘Sanvitos Summer’ into your garden will provide you with a reliable and productive crop year after year. Enjoy fresh, homegrown rhubarb and create delicious dishes for your family and friends to savour all season long!
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