The Secret to Successful Rhubarb Cultivation: Pinching Tips, Weed Control, and Soil Cultivation for Better Fertilizer Results

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Good morning, everyone.

The current time is 6:00 a.m. The air is still pleasantly cool this morning.

Garden after removing dead leaves and flower stalks

Today, I performed a process called pinching on the planted rhubarb (also known as tip pruning). By removing the flower buds, the plant redirects its energy into producing side shoots as it grows. This method helps increase the number of stalks and gives the plant a fuller appearance overall. Weeds are sprouting throughout the raised beds, so I removed them at the same time. Some leaves also show slight insect damage.

Weed control for soil cultivation and mulching

I also began preparing the soil for additional fertilizer application. First, I started removing weeds, and I am experimenting with weed control using agricultural plastic sheeting. The soil surface has already been loosened, but I plan to repeat the process several more times. After that, I will spread organic fertilizer and thoroughly mix it into the soil. To maximize its effectiveness, I intend to repeat this mixing process multiple times as well. It is certainly labor-intensive work.

New blueberry leaves

There are nine blueberry bushes in total, but only two of them have developed new leaves. That is encouraging news. Unfortunately, the remaining bushes appear to have died. During transplanting, I discovered that large roots had become nesting sites for ants. I am considering removing and disposing of those plants. In their place, I would like to plant flowers.

New raspberry leaves

This is the only young raspberry plant in the garden. It is showing extremely rapid growth. I expect it to bear fruit next year.

Overall, weeds are becoming increasingly noticeable throughout the garden. I would like to plan a large-scale mowing operation soon.

That is all for today!

Summary: Today I worked on pinching rhubarb flower buds, weed control, and soil preparation to improve future fertilizer effectiveness in the cool highlands of Fujimi, Nagano.