How to Grow Rhubarb Timperley Early
Wikimedia Commons
Rhubarb Timperley Early
Rheum rhabarbarum
vegetableTimperley Early is a British heirloom rhubarb variety prized for its early spring harvest and tender, pink-red stalks. This productive perennial produces slender, flavorful stems that are ideal for cooking and freezing. Known for forcing and early season yields, it's a favorite among gardeners seeking extended harvest periods.
When should you plant Rhubarb Timperley Early in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Rhubarb Timperley Early timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Rhubarb Timperley Early
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
Harvest Rhubarb Timperley Early
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Rhubarb Timperley Early dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-8; prefers cooler climates but adapts well to zone 8 with afternoon shade
Sign up free to see if Rhubarb Timperley Early grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Rhubarb Timperley Early timeline →Growth Stages
Dormancy/Winter Rest
October-February (4-5 months)Plant dies back completely after frost; crowns remain underground storing energy for spring emergence
No watering needed. Do not disturb soil. Can apply mulch for insulation. Temperatures below 40°F are beneficial for breaking dormancy.
Vegetative Growth
April-May (4-6 weeks)Large palmate leaves fully expand on lengthening, tender red stalks. Plant develops multiple petioles radiating from crown
Water consistently, 1-1.5 inches weekly. Fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer or compost top-dressing. Remove any flower buds that appear to direct energy to stalk production.
Flowering/Peak Harvest
May-June (4-5 weeks)Tall flower spikes emerge from crown if not removed; stalks continue to be harvestable. Flowers are cream-colored in terminal panicles
Cut flower spikes at base before opening to maintain stalk quality and energy. This variety is excellent for forcing under forcing jars or light-blocking covers.
Summer Dormancy Preparation
July-October (4 months)Stalk production slows as temperatures rise; leaves may look stressed in heat. Plant naturally slows growth preparation for winter
Reduce harvesting by late June to allow plant energy recovery. Continue watering during dry spells. Provide afternoon shade in zones 7-8.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
Remove and destroy infested stems; apply neem oil in early spring; maintain plant vigor; collect and destroy beetles by hand
-
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering; remove affected portions of crown; apply fungicide to cut surfaces if severe
-
Hand-pick beetles and eggs from leaf undersides; apply insecticidal soap; encourage natural predators like parasitic wasps
-
and
Remove garden debris; use copper barriers around plants; apply iron phosphate slug bait; encourage ground beetles as predators
-
Improve air circulation; apply sulfur spray or baking soda solution; remove infected leaves; avoid overhead watering
Uses
Cooking & Desserts
CulinaryTimperley Early's slender, tender stalks are ideal for pies, crumbles, jams, and sauces. The plant's early season provides fresh rhubarb when few other fresh fruits are available in spring. Its pink color and mild flavor make it preferred for eating fresh or cooking. [source]
Forced Rhubarb Production
CulinaryTimperley Early is one of the most forcing-responsive varieties; when covered with light-blocking jars in late winter, it produces pale pink, tender stalks 3-4 weeks earlier than outdoor plants. This premium 'forced rhubarb' is prized by chefs and home cooks. [source]
Traditional Remedies
MedicinalRhubarb stalks contain compounds including anthraquinones and tannins traditionally used in herbal medicine. Often prepared as teas or decoctions for digestive support, though internal use should be cautious and properly prepared. [source]
Natural Dyes & Cleaning
HouseholdRhubarb roots and stems have been historically used to create natural yellow and rust-colored dyes. The leaves (which contain oxalic acid) were traditionally used in cleaning preparations, though modern use is limited due to toxicity concerns. [source]
Pollinator & Beneficial Insect Support
WildlifeWhen allowed to flower, Timperley Early's tall flower spikes provide nectar and pollen for early-spring pollinators including bees and hoverflies. The large leaves provide shelter for beneficial insects. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Begin light harvesting in year 2 (only 2-3 stalks), full harvest by year 3. Pull stalks at soil level starting in early spring when they reach 12-18 inches; Timperley Early is ready 2-3 weeks before standard varieties. Harvest until late June, then stop to allow plant recovery. Remove any red, tender stalks before they become tough and stringy. Peak flavor occurs in early-to-mid spring. Can be forced for winter/early spring harvest by covering with forcing jars or blanching pots in late winter.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Timperley Early was developed in the 1920s in Yorkshire, England, and has been used for commercial forced rhubarb production in Britain for nearly a century. It's the preferred variety for 'forced rhubarb' operations in the UK.
- 🌱 Rhubarb is botanically a vegetable (the petiole of the leaf) not a fruit, despite being used entirely in sweet dishes. In 1947, a U.S. court ruled that rhubarb should be considered a fruit for tariff purposes due to its culinary use.
- 🌱 A mature rhubarb plant can produce stalks for 15-20+ years, making it one of the longest-lived garden vegetables. Timperley Early remains productive and reliable well into its second decade with proper care.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Rhubarb Timperley Early planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Rhubarb Timperley Early seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Rhubarb Timperley Early timeline →