Growing Rhubarb

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18 Oct 14 Mike (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
I bought Rhubarb plants from Bunnings about 3 months ago, very small and delicate, and they just don't progress. Each time it is windy, or we have a warm day, they seem to wilt and die off. They are in red soil, with horse manure mixed in, and the ph is about 8-9 I think(it's difficult to tell the colour of my PH test kit), sun from 7am till 2pm, and mulched with sugar cane mulch. So much for rhubarb being easy to grow :-( .Anyone got any suggestions?
29 Oct 14 Genevieve (Australia - temperate climate)
I also bought a Rhubarb plant from Bunnings, but live in Sydney. The horticulturist there advised me to plant in a big pot about 45cm plus. I mixed coir, mushroom compost, sheep manure and soil and some complete manure, before transplanting. Water once a week with Seasol and water in between. I don't water everyday as have mulched with sugarcane, it gives the plant time to adjust or they become water dependent. Also leave the pot in part shade until the plant grows vigorous. Haven't had any problems so far, expect to leave the rhubarb plant in your pot for at least a couple of years. I use manure pellets to top up my plants every six months, it seems to keep them healthy. Hope this helps.
25 Oct 14 Nobby (Australia - temperate climate)
We live in Toowoomba and I have 3 plants also very young. They get quite a lot of sun and it has been warm here recently,they are growing but very slowly and they did drop back a bit after planting them into a raised bed.I do water them 2-3 times a week ATM and they are doing OK. Not much help I know but just thought I would share.
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