When should one embark on the delightful journey of harvesting rhubarb, that vibrant and tangy perennial often heralded for its culinary versatility? Is there a specific window of time when the stalks achieve their zenith of flavor and tenderness, or can one indiscriminately pluck them at any season? What factors should an eager gardener consider as they gaze upon their flourishing plants? For instance, does the climate play a pivotal role in determining the optimal harvesting moment, or is it more about the size and color of the stalks? Might there be signs indicating that the rhubarb has matured sufficiently, such as the thickening of the stalks or their deepening hues? Furthermore, is there an ideal method to harvest these prized stalks, one that preserves the vitality of the plant for subsequent seasons? How does timing interact with the plant’s growth cycle, and what nuances must one respect to ensure a bountiful yield in the future?