ON THE VEG PATCH

LOOK AFTER RHUBARB

Rhubarb crowns can push up early shoots in a mild winter. These produce some lovely early pickings but you have to keep an eye on things. A short-lived snowfall will do little harm, but if plants are buried for days, or sub-zero temperatures persist, then early growth can suffer. A cover of horticultural fleece will help, or you can cover individual plants with straw or a large container. Light isn’t much of an issue, since this is effectively