is it ok to compost rhubarb leaves?

Discussion in 'Soils, Fertilizers and Composting' started by jean bartlett, Sep 29, 2003.

  1. jean bartlett

    jean bartlett Member

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    I have been putting rhubarb leaves into my composter, and my neighbor tells me that this is bad. I know that the leaves are not to be eaten, but thought that any danger would pass in the decomposition of them. What's right?
     
  2. jimmyq

    jimmyq Well-Known Member 10 Years

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    Metro Vancouver, BC, Canada.
    I found a reference to Rhubarb leaf composting and it sounds like its fine.

    quote from the book;
    " Rhubarb leaves contain toxic quantities of oxalic acid. Don't eat them: Trim them off the harvested stocks and compost them."


    from: the organic gardener's handbook of natural insect and disease control. Rodale press.
     
  3. 1950Greg

    1950Greg Active Member

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    Location:
    Langley, B.C. Stones throw from old HBC farm.
    This is an old Danish folk lore based on the assumption that rhubarb leaves are toxic and they will stop the composting process.
     
    Last edited: Nov 21, 2007
  4. Denise

    Denise Active Member

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    Langley B.C. Canada
    There is no problem composting rhubarb leaves.
     
  5. lorax

    lorax Rising Contributor 10 Years

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    I do it, with no harm to my composts at all.
     

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