The Sweetest Rhubarb? Meet Fulton's Strawberry Surprise

Rheum x hybridum

Rhubarb lovers searching for a standout variety need to look no further than Rhubarb Fulton’s Strawberry Surprise. This superb Rheum x hybridum variety has earned an RHS Award of Garden Merit for its outstanding qualities, including its vivid red stems, delicious flavour, and strong growth. Named after its sweet, well-balanced taste and stunning appearance, it has been voted the best-flavoured rhubarb in RHS Wisley Trials. This guide will cover everything you need to know about growing, caring for, and harvesting this exceptional soft fruit variety.

This superb variety stands out due to its vivid red stems, well-balanced acidity, and excellent flavour. Fulton’s Strawberry Surprise Rhubarb is not only easy to grow, but it also thrives in well-drained soil, making it perfect for gardeners of all experience levels. It is highly productive, producing vigorous plants with a generous crop of red stalks from early spring onwards.

Preparing the Soil

• Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
• Remove all weeds and prepare the soil by digging in plenty of well-rotted manure or compost.
• The soil should be enriched with organic matter to support strong root development.

Planting Rhubarb Crowns

• Planting rhubarb crowns should take place from autumn to spring.
• Ensure the top of the crown sits 3cm (1 inch) below the soil surface.
• Space crowns 75cm (30 inches) apart, with 1.2m (4 feet) between rows to allow room for growth.
• Water well after planting to encourage vigorous plants.

Sun and Soil Requirements

• Rhubarb plants prefer full sun but can tolerate semi-shade.

• Well-drained soil is essential to prevent crown rot.

• The ideal soil pH is neutral to slightly acidic.

Check your soil’s pH with a reliable soil test kit—get yours today!

Watering and Feeding

• Keep plants well-watered, particularly during dry spells.
• Apply a mulch of well-rotted manure in late autumn to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Use an organic fertiliser in early spring to boost growth.

• Do not harvest in the first year to allow strong root establishment.
• From the second season onwards, harvest stalks by gently pulling them away from the crown.
• Never remove all stalks at once; leave at least one-third to maintain plant vigour.
• The best time for harvest is from early spring to late summer.

This flavoured rhubarb is perfect for pies, crumbles, jams, and desserts. Its vivid red stems add a rich colour to any dish, and the well-balanced acidity creates a fantastic depth of flavour. Whether used in classic rhubarb recipes or creative new dishes, this variety consistently delivers outstanding flavour.

Key Points to Remember:

• Award-winning variety, voted the best flavoured rhubarb in RHS Wisley Trials
• Produces vigorous plants with vivid red stems
• Thrives in full sun with well-drained soil
• Requires plenty of well-rotted manure or compost for optimal growth
• Mulch annually to retain moisture and suppress weeds
• Harvest from early spring, taking care to leave some stems for continuous production
• Perfect for pies, crumbles, and other desserts

Rhubarb Fulton’s Strawberry Surprise is a must-have for any gardener looking to grow a delicious, reliable, and visually stunning variety. With proper care, this RHS Award of Garden Merit winner will provide years of tasty harvests.

To see the RHS article please click here

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Makes Fulton’s Strawberry Surprise Rhubarb Unique?

Fulton’s Strawberry Surprise is an exceptional rhubarb variety, celebrated for its well-balanced acidity and striking pink stems. It is a vigorous and reliable plant that produces flavourful, high-quality rhubarb, making it a perfect choice for culinary use. This variety has also been recognised with the prestigious RHS Award of Garden Merit (AGM), which highlights its outstanding performance in UK gardens. Combining ornamental beauty with exceptional taste, it remains a firm favourite among gardeners and home growers alike.

Where Can I Buy Fulton’s Strawberry Surprise Rhubarb?

You can purchase Fulton’s Strawberry Surprise rhubarb at garden centres and online nurseries across the UK. To ensure you receive a healthy and well-established plant, always buy from a reputable supplier.

How Can I Ensure My Fulton’s Strawberry Surprise Rhubarb Grows Well?

For successful growth, plant Fulton’s Strawberry Surprise rhubarb in well-drained soil enriched with plenty of well-rotted manure or compost. Choose a sunny location, as rhubarb thrives in full sun. Regular watering, especially during dry spells, will keep the plant healthy. Applying a layer of mulch around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds, contributing to its long-term vitality.

When Can I Expect to Harvest My Fulton’s Strawberry Surprise Rhubarb?

You can typically begin harvesting your rhubarb from late spring to early summer. In its first year, allow the plant to establish itself by refraining from harvesting any stalks. From the second year onwards, you can begin picking by pulling (rather than cutting) the stalks from the base. Always leave a few stems on the plant to support its regeneration for the following season.

How Tall Can Fulton’s Strawberry Surprise Rhubarb Grow?

This variety can grow up to 120cm in height, making it a striking and productive addition to your garden. For optimal growth, plant the crowns just below the soil surface, ensuring they have sufficient space to spread and develop a strong root system.

Can I Use Fulton’s Strawberry Surprise in Desserts?

Absolutely! This variety is ideal for classic desserts such as rhubarb crumbles, pies, and jams. Its naturally sweet yet slightly tart flavour enhances baked goods, compotes, and even savoury dishes. Whether enjoyed fresh, stewed, or baked, Fulton’s Strawberry Surprise adds a delicious and distinctive twist to any recipe.

What Should I Do if My Rhubarb Plants Experience Dieback?

Dieback can occur due to environmental stressors such as drought, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiencies. If you notice signs of dieback, ensure your plant receives adequate water, particularly during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring. Removing any dead or damaged stems will also encourage fresh, healthy growth.

Are There Any Specific Care Tips for Planting Rhubarb Crowns?

Yes! When planting rhubarb crowns, position them just below the soil surface with the buds exposed. Choose a location with fertile, well-drained soil and enrich it with well-rotted manure or compost to provide essential nutrients. Avoid harvesting in the first year to allow the plant to establish a robust root system, ensuring a strong and healthy future crop.

How Does Fulton’s Strawberry Surprise Compare in Taste to Other Rhubarb Varieties?

Fulton’s Strawberry Surprise is well known for its balanced acidity, offering a naturally sweeter flavour compared to many other rhubarb varieties. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a less sharp, more fruity taste in their rhubarb dishes. With its smooth texture and vibrant colour, it is highly sought after for both cooking and preserving.