How to Grow and Care for Rhododendrons

When Do Rhododendrons Bloom

Rhododendrons are often found in the south.

Rhododendron is actually a genus of flowering plants with over 1000 different species. Many showy flower displays in bright pinks, purples and magenta. It also includes plants known to gardeners as azaleas.

Rhododendrons, including azaleas, are used extensively as ornamental plants in landscaping in many parts of the world. Azaleas in particular, are frequently used around foundations and as hedges, and many larger-leafed rhododendrons lend themselves well to more informal plantings and woodland gardens. Larger rhododendrons can be pruned to encourage a more tree-like form growing to 30-45 feet tall.

Instructions

1. Rhododendrons prefer growing on a slope, where water can quickly drain away after heavy rains. In level yards, plant these beautiful shrubs in a raised flower bed.

2. These plants love the shade but will need some filtered sunlight to produce flowers.

3. Rhododendrons need loose soil that contains plenty of organic matter. If planted in heavy clay they have the propensity to rot and die. Prepare your soil accordingly.

4. Before planting in spring, soak the root-ball for several minutes to loosen the soil. With your fingers, gently remove the soil from the bottom of the root-ball while preserving the roots, leave the root-ball only 6 to 8 inches high.

5. Spread the roots out in the hole and backfill with soil mix to the top of the root ball. This will coax the roots to grow out instead of down.

6. Fertilize Rhododendron and azalea's per the instruction on the plant food, immediately after blooming.

7. Rhododendrons have shallow root systems. Cover the roots with several inches of mulch to keep the soil cool and moist. When watering, water until the the soil is wet about 6 inches deep.

Tips & Warnings

• The following guide will help you determine the color of the plants on your next trip to the nursury:

• Anah Kruschke - lavender-blue to reddish-purple

• Anna Rose Whitney - deep pink

• Ben Moseley - purplish-pink with a dark blotch

• Blue Ensign - lilac-blue with a dark blotch

• Calsap - lavender-white with a dark purple blotch

• Caroline - light pink

• Cynthia - rosy crimsom

• English Roseum - pink

• Janet Blair - pink and cream with a yellow blotch

• Scintillation - light pink with a yellow blotch

• Wheatley - rose pink