Winterizing rhubarb it’s first year

Question

The plant grew very well. It has red at the bottom of the stems but the rest of the stem is green. The stems are about 15 inches long. Do we harvest any of the stalks this first year or do we let it die out , mulch for the winter and start again next year. My instinct tells me to cut it back for the winter but I have heard you can’t do this as it would inhibit a good growth for next year. What do we do with it at this time to get it ready for our northern Ohio winter?

Answer 1

In your area, you will need to take special precautions. You will need to mulch the area, and make sure that it doesn't get too cold. Here is an article that will help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/rhubarb/protecting-rhubarb-in-winter.htm