Rhubarb has what looks like fungus on.

andrew.mcelvenney

Late last year I planted some rhubarb and over the winter covered it in straw and a bin. I've just had a look at it and some of the shoots looks like they have fungus growing on them. I presume this isn't usual so what is the problem and what do I do about it?

Dovefromabove

Can you show us some photos please?

andrew.mcelvenney

Dovefromabove

I think that’s just a bit of rot/botrytis caused by humid conditions … it’s been quite mild this winter … I’d remove the bin covering the rhubarb and that’ll improve the ventilation and deter moulds.  

We’ve not even covered ours this winter and we’re pulling a lovely crop. 😊 
 

andrew.mcelvenney

Ok thanks I'll take that into account for future years. Is it best to cut that part off.

Dovefromabove

As it’s a young plant I presume you’ll not be pulling any stalks this year. If you were I’d just take it and cook it. 

But on a young plant that you won’t be taking a crop from this year I’d leave it … the fresh cooler air will probably kill off the mould and that leaf may even develop enough to photosynthesise and feed the roots and crown of the plant, which is what’s needed. 😊 

bertrand-mabel

We don't cover ours and over the last 4 weeks we have been harvesting. OK they are still small forcompared to later in the year but still worthwhile.