Rhubarb Timperley Early Perhaps the earliest rhubarb cultivar and the best for forcing, Rheum x hybridum Timperley Early is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial with huge green leaves. The stems are thick and deep red at the base, fading to light green with red flecks. The succulent flesh is light green and well-flavoured, and holds together when cooked; the stems become paler, sweeter and more tender if the plant is forced. Force from January under a light-proof, inverted black plastic dustbin, with straw piled over the crown; check regularly for slugs. Rhubarb Timperley Early is a reliable, heavy cropper, and will live for many years if forcing is carried out only in alternate years. Pick by pulling the stems. Holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit. Site: Tolerates exposureSoil: Any fertile, moist, reasonably well drained soilPosition: Full sunPick: March and AprilKeep: Will keep for a few days in the fridgeHardiness: HardyUses: Cooking and preserving