And if you're partial to more than an occasional dessert (like I am), you'll love the fact that hand-planted rhubarb grows like wildfire - giving you big bang for your buck.
If that sounds like the sweet deal you're after, grab some Awapuni rhubarb seedlings from your local supermarket, Bunnings, or The Warehouse. Or place your order online and have them delivered direct to your door.
Before you get planting, you need to have the right conditions in place - rhubarb likes a sunny spot with soil that's rich and moist, not to mention plenty of space to flourish. I should also tell you that it'll be there for the long haul, so it's best planted at the back of your garden so as not to interfere with your other crops.
Once you've found your spot, dig a hole approximately 3cm deep and insert your seedling. You'll be pleased to know you don't need to be fussy about spacing or neat rows - your giant rhubarb will grow well no matter where it's placed. Just make sure you use a mulch, like grass clippings, and ensure your plant has access to plenty of fertiliser - a few extra nutrients helps our 'gross feeder' stay healthy and produce a good crop.
As they say, all good things take time and patience is certainly the key to this plant. Rhubarb needs time to develop so resist the urge to pick any stalks in its first year.
As the seasons pass, you'll notice the plant develop large leaves, which I think adds a nice bit of drama to your garden; just mind you don't eat them as they are, in fact, toxic. Also watch out for caterpillars and aphids.
Once you're finally ready to harvest, make sure you pick the outside stems first, gently pulling or twisting the base. Don't chop them with a knife as the cut ends can rot and damage the crown.
Look after your plants and they'll pay you back with a lifetime of bounty (just divide the crowns every few years to keep them flourishing). And for the real taste test, the proof is, of course, in the pudding. Enjoy.