Sowing window (UK)November to March
Minimum soil temperature5°C at seed depth
Spacing90 cm apart
Days to germination14 days
Days to harvest365 days
Sowing methodStart under cover, transplant out
Frost hardyYes
Sunfull-sun
Wateringmoderate
Plant familyPolygonaceae

When should I sow Rhubarb 'Timperley Early' in the UK?

In the UK, sow Rhubarb 'Timperley Early' from November to March. It is normally started under cover and transplanted. Wait until the soil has reached 5°C at seed depth rather than going by the calendar - rhubarb will sit and rot in cold ground.

What soil temperature does Rhubarb 'Timperley Early' need to germinate?

Rhubarb 'Timperley Early' needs a minimum soil temperature of 5°C at seed depth to germinate reliably. Below that, germination is slow and patchy, and seed is more likely to rot than sprout. Measure at around 5cm down, in the morning, rather than trusting air temperature.

How deep and how far apart should I sow Rhubarb 'Timperley Early'?

For Rhubarb 'Timperley Early', space plants 90cm apart.

How long does Rhubarb 'Timperley Early' take to grow?

Rhubarb 'Timperley Early' takes roughly 365 days from sowing to harvest. Seed usually germinates in about 14 days.

Is Rhubarb 'Timperley Early' frost hardy?

Yes. Rhubarb 'Timperley Early' is frost hardy and will stand through UK frosts, so it can be left out over winter in most of the country.

Sowing data cross-checked against RHS growing guides and UK seed-merchant catalogues. Soil temperatures are the minimum for reliable germination, measured at seed depth.