Why you should never throw away rhubarb leaves

The leaves are a real secret weapon in the garden: they can be used for everything from fertilizing to pest control.

The delicious stems are usually transformed into a tasty compote or a delicious cake. And the large rhubarb leaves usually end up in the trash. But wait! You shouldn't do that. That's because rhubarb leaves are a real secret weapon in the garden: they can be used for everything from fertilizing to pest control.

When eating rhubarb, only the stems should be eaten. The leaves are poisonous due to their high oxalic acid content and should not be consumed under any circumstances.

Tip 1: Use rhubarb leaves to keep snails out of your garden

The best time to find snails is late evening or very early in the morning after a warm rain. Rhubarb leaves are used as bait. Garden experts advises laying wooden boards around the flowerbeds. The snails gather underneath them in the morning and can then be collected and taken away.

Tip 2: Rhubarb leaves help with sowing

For their development, the seedlings need sufficient and regular moisture in the first few weeks. This is a challenge on hot days. Sun and wind dry out an open soil surface quickly. Mulch such as dried grass clippings, straw or rhubarb leaves help to keep moisture in the soil.

Tip 3: Rhubarb leaves help against aphids

A solution made from rhubarb leaves has proven to be an effective repellent against aphids and other pests. It should be noted that different concentrations of the liquid are required depending on the application. For targeted control of diseases and pests, a concentrated solution in a one-to-one ratio of water to rhubarb leaves is recommended.

Tip 4: Use rhubarb leaves as fertilizer

A diluted five-to-one solution of the leaves makes an excellent natural fertilizer that promotes plant growth and makes them more resilient.

Tip 5: Rhubarb leaves are a miracle cure for promoting growth

According to gardening experts, rhubarb leaves are not only excellent for pest control and fertilization, but also for strengthening plants. A rhubarb brew is particularly useful in spring and fall. This provides the necessary growth boost.