While the flower or seed stalks should not be used, the leaf stalks are edible. However, the flower stalks should be promptly pulled and discarded. If allowed to develop, the flower stalks reduce plant vigor and next year's production. Flower stalk formation may be caused by drought, infertile soils, and extreme heat. Age may be another factor.
Old plants tend to flower more than young ones.
Flower formation can be discouraged with good cultural practices. Water rhubarb plants once a week during dry weather. Manure is an alternative to a commercial fertilizer. Apply a 2 to 3 inch layer of well-rotted manure around rhubarb plants in spring. Dig and divide large, old rhubarb plants in early spring or late summer.