Rhododendron Care

A rhododendron is an easily maintained and hardy shrub with clusters of colorful bell shaped flowers and leathery green leaves. There are thousands of species of rhododendron due to their ability to thrive in many climates and soil conditions, so make sure to choose a plant that does well in your region. While it is a bush, Rhododendron’s can grow up to 80 feet tall!

When planting your rhododendron, make sure to pick a location with light shade, since too much exposure to the sun can dry the soil and leaves, inhibiting growth. Carefully remove the rhododendron from its container, checking to see if the root ball is dry. If it is, it will need to be soaked for about an hour in water before planting. Gently loosen the outer roots with your fingers. Dig a hole at least a foot larger than the rhododendron’s root ball. Set the plant in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the ground’s surface. Rhododendruns can be easily damaged or killed if planted too deeply. Center the plant in the hole and begin filling with soil. Rhododendrons prefer a moist, well drained soil with a pH of 5.5.

Mulching a newly planted rhododendron with pine needles discourages weeds and will add acidity to the plant. When watering your rhododendron, make sure the soil is moist, but never soggy. Allow the soil to dry out slightly in between watering. Fertilize the rhododendron in spring with a good 4-6-4 shrub food and iron sulfate. This should be applied before the plant begins to bloom. Also in spring, prune the tips off excessively long stems in young plants, to encourage bushy habit, yet leaving established shrubs alone.

Treat rhododendrons for insects or disease issues only if you notice a problem, as they are normally robust and virtually pest and disease free. However, if your rhododendron is diseased and dies, planting another immediately in its place is not a good idea, since the fungus or disease typically remains in the soil.

To prepare your rhododendron for winter, add 2-3 inches of mulch around the shrub, keeping the ring 2-3 inches away from the trunk. Cover the rhododendron with an anti-desiccant spray before the first frost to ensure the leaves do not lose moisture. Protect your rhododendron from strong winds and snow accumulation by structuring a snow shelter or using burlap.