Rhubarb

Rhubarb may be raised from seed, but it is better and more usual to obtain established roots. You don't have to wait nearly as long ot get to enjoy the plants this way, but if you have time, and the patients more power to you. Seeds are sown a foot or more apart from March to April. Thin plants to 10" in autumn.


Rhubarb roots may be planted at any time of the year, but in cooler weather is better. Plant each plant 10 to 12" apart. It is best to wait for the next year's plants for harvest, or you run the terrible risk of your plants not coming back the next year.



Medicinal Uses

• Rhubarb is an astringent.


• It is specially useful in stomach troubles and looseness of the bowels. In large doses it acts as a laxative.


• Dose of powdered root, 5 to 60 grains. The dose is entirely individual, 12 grains acting on some persons, as much as 20 on others of the same age. 20 grains of the seed are equal to 30 of the root.


• A decoction of the seeds is supposed not only to ease pains in the stomach, but to strengthen it by increasing the appetite.


• A strong decoction of the root has been employed as a good wash for sores.
  

But a personal favorite is the dessert.

1 1/2 cups white sugar.

3 cups chopped rhubarb.

Whip cream.

A handful of crunched up teddy grahams.

Cook the rhubarb, and sugar together with a little bit of water until the rhubarb is tender.

Crush up teddy grahams up and stick in the bottom of a desert cup. Layer in rhubarb, and top with whip cream.

Chill and serve cold.

I'm not sure who has the rights to this tasty recipe, its just one that my mom use to make. We're a happy rhubarb family, but you really should try it if you are a happy rhubarb family too.

Cheers!