When this vegetable arrives on your tables, it is proof that the good days are definitely there. It is delicious in a pie, remarkable in jam. Rhubarb is a marvel for the palate. If its stem is edible, conversely, its leaves are harmful for humans. Nevertheless, they are benefactors in the vegetable garden.
Rhubarb, an old large-leaved vegetable with virtuous powers
In myths, beliefs and other legends, wearing a rhubarb root around the neck protects against stomach pain. He is also attributed the power to “ chase away angerre“ . On the other hand, it also has the reputation of acting against snake bites. Furthermore, rhubarb is a very old vegetable since it has been cultivated by the Chinese for millennia, 3,000 years to be more precise.
Equipped with very large leaves and can reach a height of one meter, gardeners plant it at the back of flowerbeds to prevent it from shading other plants. On the other hand, even if we only eat the stem, it is useful to keep its leaves. Indeed, thanks to them, you will be able to get rid of certain insects in your garden.
Rhubarb leaf: an effective insecticide to fight garden pests
The green and fleshy part of the plant is therefore harmful, or more precisely its limb. Indeed, it contains a large quantity ofoxalic acid. But this poison is an ally for gardeners. Thanks to this acid, it is possible to manufacture a 100% natural and organic insecticide to fight against aphid invasions. Please note, this product has no impact on butterflies, bees, etc.
So, if you want to make this product: take 500 g rhubarb leaves. Cut them in stripsthen do them macerate in 5 l of cold water for 24 hours. Then wear it all to boil for 30′. Then, let cool and filter the liquid. Spray it on your plants, or mix it with water and water your plants with it.
Enjoy rhubarb sweet or savory
Rhubarb is a vegetable associated with desserts. So much so that she is often mistaken for fruit. Certainly, the rhubarb/strawberry combination for tarts is a great classic, just like turnovers or jam. It can also be eaten as a sugar crunch.
But it also goes very well in savory recipes. It is famous for accompanying fish or meat. To do this, brown small sections of stems for a few minutes with Maple syrup or honey. Then decorate your plates or salads with a few pieces. Enjoy your food.
