How to Grow Rhubarb in Australia
A cool-season fruiting for the long-term patch
Growing your own Rhubarb is one of the more satisfying things you can do in an Australian backyard. It is rated intermediate to grow. Saves ~$4-8/bunch. One crown produces for 10+ years.
This guide covers when to plant Rhubarb in your region, the position and soil it likes, how to plant it, day-to-day care, the pests and diseases to watch, and how to harvest and store your crop.
When to Plant in Your Region
Rhubarb is a cool-season crop, fully frost-hardy. In subtropical South-East Queensland it is best planted in April, May, June and July. Timing shifts with your climate, so choose your region below for a local calendar.
Varieties to Try
Sydney Crimson
Australian bred for warmer climates. Red stems, lower chill requirement than European types.
Try: Diggers, Daleys
Wandin Red
Deep red stems, very productive. The standard commercial variety in southern Australia.
Try: Diggers, local nurseries
Victoria
Green-stemmed heirloom. Vigorous, less red colour but excellent flavour. Easier from seed than red types.
Try: Eden Seeds, Mr Fothergill's
Position and Soil
Give Rhubarb full sun (at least 6 hours a day). It does best in free-draining soil with a pH around 6 to 7. Dig through plenty of compost before planting, and mulch to hold moisture and keep weeds down. It can be container-grown in 50cm+, though it is happier in the ground.
Planting
Plant Rhubarb into a well-prepared hole the same depth as the rootball and twice as wide. Allow about 90 cm between plants (more for full-size trees) so each has room and airflow. Water in well, stake if needed, and keep the area weed-free while it establishes.
SAFETY: Leaves are toxic. Only eat the stems. Needs winter chill to produce thick stems, so reliable from Canberra and Melbourne south. Marginal in SEQ but possible in hinterland frost pockets. Plant crowns (not seed) for faster establishment. Do not harvest in the first year.
Care
Water consistently, roughly 6 L per plant every 3 days in warm weather, less in cool or wet spells. Feed every few weeks through the growing season with a balanced organic fertiliser, and keep mulch topped up.
Pests and Diseases
Keep an eye out for Snails and Crown borer. The main diseases to watch are Crown rot and Leaf spot. Good spacing, watering at the base rather than over the leaves, and crop rotation prevent most problems. See our Pest and Disease Guide to identify and fix any issue.
Harvesting and Storage
Rhubarb is typically ready to harvest within roughly 12 months once established (young plants may take a season or two longer). Fridge wrapped in a damp cloth for 1 week. Chop and freeze for months.
In the Kitchen
In the kitchen, rhubarb is good stewed with sugar for crumbles and pies, made into compote for yoghurt, combined with strawberry in jams and roasted with honey as a dessert. Nutritionally: good source of vitamin K and contains calcium and manganese.
Companion Planting
Rhubarb grows well alongside Strawberry, Beans and Brassicas. Our Companion Planting Guide has the full pairings.
Track Your Rhubarb Growing
Add rhubarb to your garden in the Planting Season app and get reminders for planting, care and harvest, tuned to your region.
Open the App →Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Rhubarb in Australia?
Rhubarb is a cool-season crop. In subtropical regions like South-East Queensland it is best planted in April, May, June and July. Timing changes with your climate, so use the calendar above for your region.
How long does Rhubarb take to grow?
Rhubarb is generally ready to harvest within roughly 12 months once established (young plants may take a season or two longer).
How much sun does Rhubarb need?
Give it full sun (at least 6 hours a day) for the healthiest growth and best harvest.
See also: Rhubarb in the Plant Library
