Rhubarb- the first year

[OwlMother]

I've a rhubarb plant that I put in earlier this year. It seems to be doing really well, lots of vigorous healthy growth. My question is, do I pick it? I've had a bit of a look online and there seems to be the idea that I leave it alone for the first year-possibly the second too. Has anyone any experience? Seems such a waste of lovely rhubarb!

Yes, definitely leave it alone this year to let it establish. You should be fine to pick next year though, just be a bit cautious and don't over do it.

Great, thanks. Do I let it just die back in the autumns and mulch and tidy it up then?

Yes, basically just leave it be, except that if it starts to flower you should cut out the flowering stalk.

Brilliant, thank you.