• Rhubarb suffers from few diseases. Crown rot is the main threat, particularly if soil conditions are wet. The fungal infection occurs at the base of the stalks where crowns turn brown and soften.
• Plants suffering from rot should be dug up and destroyed immediately. To avoid crown rot, make sure rhubarb is planted in fertile, well-drained, weed-free soil.

Divide your Rhubarb

Big clumps of Rhubarb die out in the middle,producing less over time. Dig and divide now. It's a tough job that will involve collateral damage but rhubarb is a survivor. Use a sharp spade and your weight to slice the crown into several pieces, each with at least one pink bud, cutting away dead and unproductive bits. Dig in generous quantities of garden compost before replanting with the buds just below the surface.

The Guardian Weekend 9th October 2010