Rhododendrons are an evergreen shrub of the heather family. Gardeners value these plants for their beautiful flowers and leaves. The homeland of shrubs is the Mediterranean, but with proper care and adherence to agricultural technology, rhododendrons can be grown in the middle lane. How to choose the right type of rhododendron and take care of it?
Necessary
- - sapling of rhododendron;
- - peat, coniferous litter or sawdust;
- - garden tools.
Instructions
Step 1
Select and prepare a site for planting a shrub. Rhododendrons prefer places protected from direct sunlight. Areas protected from the wind by a fence or tall trees are excellent. Be sure to choose acidic soils, but not too wet. These plants do not tolerate root locking, therefore, places with a high groundwater table for planting are undesirable. Dig up the soil by picking out all the weeds. Dig a hole (no more than 40 cm deep) and fill it with a substrate of peat, sand and pine needles (sawdust).
Step 2
Get the right kind of rhododendron. In conditions of rather harsh winters, deciduous species of this shrub are better suited. These are mainly plants reaching a height of 1.5 m. Please note that the color and aroma of flowers may vary greatly from species to species. Rhododendrons look good next to spireas and hydrangeas.
Step 3
Plant a bush. Instances in containers can be planted all season, bushes with open roots are best planted in spring. Soak the rhododendron roots in a biostimulant solution for several hours before planting. Gently lower the bush into the planting hole. Make sure that the root collar of the plant (the place where the stems pass into the roots) is at ground level. Spread the roots in the planting hole and carefully cover with earth and mulch (sawdust, bark, decorative chips).
Step 4
Remove weeds and water the young plant in a timely manner. It is better not to loosen the soil under the rhododendron, because his root system is superficial. Do not allow the soil under the bush to dry out. It is advisable to add acidifying elements to the water for irrigation (for example, citric acid 1 tbsp. L per 10 l).
Step 5
As soon as the bush fades, remove the inflorescences. Such pruning will help to build up more vegetative mass, which means guaranteed lush flowering next year. Also, after flowering, prune the bushes (if required) to shape the plants.
Step 6
Prepare rhododendrons in time for wintering. With the onset of cold weather, cover the plants (especially young bushes) with spruce branches and burlap. Don't neglect shelter for even the most winter-hardy species.
