How to Root Rhododendrons
Rhododendrons are flowering shrubs and trees that produce vibrant-colored blooms for short periods of time each spring. One of the more common varieties of the rhododendron plant is the azalea, which grows abundantly in the spring and summer months--especially in southern regions of the United States. Although rhododendron plants are slightly harder to root because of the wooded stem, clippings can be successfully rooted using rooting hormone and by establishing the proper growing conditions. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Pruning shears
- Knife
- Bleach
- Rooting hormone
- Potting soil
- Plant container or large cup
- Water
- Plastic sandwich bag
Instructions
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1
Look for stems on the rhododendron plant that have no visible flowers or flower buds. Flower buds are small brown nodules that appear along the stem.
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2
Cut a clipping with pruning shears that is approximately 4 to 5 inches long.
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3
Lay the clipping on a flat surface and use a knife to remove the top layer of bark near the cut end. You only need to scrape off a ½-inch section. Do not cut through the entire stem.
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4
Flip the stem over and remove the top layer of the bark from the opposite side of the plant stem.
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5
Prepare a solution of one part bleach to 10 parts water and soak the clipping in it for five minutes. Rinse the cutting in clean water, but do not dry it.
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6
Insert the wet stem into rooting hormone until the section that was shaved away is completely covered.
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7
Fill a small plant container or large cup with potting soil and create a hole in the center that is approximately 1 to 2 inches deep.
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8
Place the clipping into the potting soil and pack the potting soil firmly around the clipping.
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9
Water the soil until it appears damp. Do not over-water.
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10
Place the entire container into a plastic sandwich bag and seal completely. Place the bag in a sunny location for two to three months.
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Tips & Warnings
After two to three months, the clipping will have grown roots and can be transplanted outside or to a larger container.
