It simply belongs in every garden because it enchants us with its wonderful flowers: we are talking about the rhododendron. However, it only blooms magnificently with the right care.
The rhododendron can be found almost everywhere and is extremely popular. Not only because it has such beautiful flowers, but also because it is actually relatively easy to care for. However, that doesn't mean you don't have to give it any care. If he doesn't get any care units at all, it may happen that he doesn't thrive as you imagine. However, if you always heed the following care tips, then you will have no problems at all with your rhododendron. It will then develop beautiful flowers that will bathe your garden in a sea of white, red, yellow and purple.
How to properly care for rhododendrons
Location:
The right location is important for rhododendrons to thrive. The location should be bright, but not in the blazing sun. A location under deep-rooted trees such as pines is ideal. When it comes to planting, you should place the rhododendron in a hole twice the size of the root ball. The surface of the bale should be level with the ground, so don't set it too deep.
Casting:
Sun and high temperatures can be very difficult for rhododendrons. So when it's really hot outside and also when the rhododendron has gotten a place in the blazing sun, you have to water it regularly and abundantly. If the rhododendron rolls up its leaves, it wants to prevent evaporation. That's a sure sign he's in dire need of water.
Fertilize:
If you want to do something good for your rhododendron, then fertilize it regularly with a rhododendron fertilizer from March (pay attention to the manufacturer's instructions). Alternatively, you can also use compost.
It also makes sense to apply mulch around the plant. It keeps the moisture in the soil better and protects the rhododendron from drying out. It also releases nutrients into the soil and protects the roots when the sun is too strong.
Cut:
In itselfyou don't have to cut the rhododendron. However, rhododendrons can grow quite large, which is not welcome in every garden. Then you even have to use the secateurs and cut the rhododendron. It is best to do this in the fall, right after flowering. Shorten about a third of the shoots evenly to about 50 centimeters.
remove faded flowers:
Inflorescences that have withered should always be plucked out immediately, as it takes too much energy for the plant to form seeds.
Hiberation:
The rhododendrons available here are usually all hardy. So you don't have to take any precautions for the winter here. The only exception is rhododendrons in pots. They absolutely need some protection in winter. It is best to place the potted plants in a bright but cool place in the house. If the plant has to overwinter outside because the pot has become too heavy, for example, then surround the pot with insulating materials such as coconut mats or bubble wrap.
The root ball should never dry out completely, even in winter. So you have to water the rhododendron in winter too. Always do this on a frost-free day. Do not water too much, because if it freezes at night, a large lump of ice will form in the root area.