Rhododendron is translated as “rose tree,” which is quite fair, because in beauty these plants are not inferior to the queen of flowers. Lush bright flowers attract attention, and sometimes hide most of the leaves.

Among the representatives of the genus there are small shrubs and trees, miniature and quite large, deciduous, semi-deciduous and evergreen plants. Some species are just over 10 cm in height, while others resemble small trees. Flowers with bright corollas of yellow, purple, pink and violet tones, collected in small inflorescences.

Features of growing rhododendron

Rhododendrons are rapidly gaining the sympathy of gardeners, but not everyone decides to plant them on their site. The plants have gained a reputation for being whimsical and even capricious, partly due to their low frost resistance and lack of information on their cultivation in the middle zone. However, the abundance of varieties and hybrids allows you to choose plants for any conditions, and caring for them is no more difficult than caring for any other garden plant. A correctly chosen rhododendron can grow and bloom successfully even in the conditions of the Moscow region.

Planting rhododendron in the ground

Correct landing is one of the most important factors affecting the further growth of the plant. If the choice of location is unsuccessful, the rhododendron refuses to bloom and a transplant becomes necessary.

Planting methods

To plant, you must prepare in advance landing hole 50 cm deep and 70-80 cm wide, since the root system of the plant is superficial. The bottom of the pit is lined with drainage made of broken bricks, crushed stone and sand. The thickness of the drainage layer must be at least 15 cm.

The roots should not be too deep. They should be located at a depth of about 4 cm from the soil surface. To protect the root system from drying out and freezing, it is recommended to mulch the soil around the plant with a layer of pine needles or sawdust at least 5 cm thick. This planting method imitates natural conditions as much as possible.

Optimal time for planting

Rhododendrons are recommended to be planted in spring. Autumn planting acceptable, but undesirable, especially in cold regions. Plants with a closed root system can be planted in summer, but only after flowering and subject to abundant watering.

Soil for the plant

Rhododendrons love acidic or slightly acidic, loose, breathable soil. A soil mixture consisting of:

• Peat;
• Leafy soil;
• Rotted manure;
• Well-decomposed compost (ripened for at least 2-3 years);
• Pine needles;
• Heatherland;
• Mineral fertilizer (optional).

The soil mixture does not have to include all of the listed components. The combination may vary

Planting in spring

The optimal time for planting is the end of April May. Plants should be planted before active growth begins or at the very beginning. Flower buds must be broken out so that the plant does not waste energy on flowering and takes root better.

The subtleties of planting container plants

Most often, gardeners buy rhododendrons in containers and plant them on the site without destroying the earthen ball. When kept in containers, the roots in contact with the walls of the pot often die and form a dense felt through which young roots simply cannot grow. It turns out that the planted plant does not get rid of its “living pot” and takes root in the open ground.

When planting, you need to try to untangle the roots and remove old dried ones. If this cannot be done, then you need to cut the resulting lump across several times.

Features of caring for rhododendron in the garden

Caring for rhododendron is not difficult, but you need to know the characteristics of different types and varieties, because the conditions necessary for them can vary greatly.

Location and lighting for the plant

Particular attention should be paid to choosing a place and neighbors for rhododendron. Evergreen species grow best in light partial shade, deciduous species do well in the sun, but in regions with too hot summers it is better to choose light openwork shade for them.

Particular attention should be paid to neighboring plants. An environment of conifers, such as larch or pine, will have a beneficial effect on the growth and development of rhododendron. They will provide the shrubs with the necessary light shade, and the pine litter will acidify the soil and mulch the root system. Plants with a shallow root system are not suitable as neighbors, since rhododendron will not be able to withstand competition for nutrients.

Air humidity

Rhododendron loves high humidity and responds well to spraying, which is simply necessary in hot weather. However, the water for spraying must be soft and free of chlorine and hardness salts.

How to water correctly

Soil moisture is no less important for a plant than air humidity. In hot weather, it is necessary to water the bush abundantly several times a week, and if there is a suspicion of deficiency, then more often. Watering must be done with soft, and ideally acidified, water. To do this, you can infuse it with sour peat. When watering, the water should thoroughly saturate the soil to a depth of at least 20 cm.

Interesting! You can determine the lack of moisture by the condition of the leaves, which droop and become dull.

Feeding and fertilizing the flower

The plant needs mineral and organic fertilizers, since a large amount of resources is spent on flowering. In spring and the first half of summer, it is recommended to feed rhododendrons with organic fertilizers. A weak infusion of mullein or mulching is suitable for these purposes. trunk circle a mixture of compost and well-rotted manure. In the second half of summer after flowering, you can fertilize with phosphorus-potassium fertilizers with a concentration of the main elements of 2:1.

Interesting! Fertilizing with phosphorus-potassium fertilizers helps not only prepare for winter, but also stimulates the formation of new flower buds.

It is better to feed young plants with complex mineral fertilizers, containing the main elements in equal concentrations. If secondary growth of shoots is observed in the fall, it is recommended to spray the plants with a solution of potassium sulfate or potassium phosphate.

On a note! There is no need to be too zealous with the addition of superphosphate, as it impairs the absorption of iron, which leads to chlorosis of the leaves.

Rhododendron pruning

Plants are characterized by a regular shape. It looks beautiful and natural and usually does not need adjustments. You have to resort to pruning very rarely and even a beginner can do it.

Trimming methods

Sometimes you have to prune bushes that are too old and overgrown, whose branches are starting to fall apart or protrude too much onto the path. It is better to prune in March-April before the active growing season begins. The cuts must be covered with garden varnish.

On a note! Radical pruning of old bushes for the purpose of rejuvenation is carried out in 2 stages. The first year they prune one half of the bush, the second - the other.

If shaping is necessary for young seedlings, then it is better to resort to pinching the growth points. This stimulates branching and contributes to the formation of a compact and dense bush.

In winter, some shoots may freeze or break under the weight of snow. In this case, sanitary pruning may be necessary in the spring. In the summer, to preserve the decorative appearance, you can remove dried inflorescences, but this can be easily done without pruning shears.

Transplanting rhododendron

Sometimes a plant needs to be replanted if the planting site was initially chosen incorrectly. In most cases, rhododendrons tolerate this procedure well and may bloom within the next year. Digging them out is not difficult due to the compact development of the root system.

Transplantation can be carried out in early spring, before buds open, or after flowering. It is strictly forbidden to postpone the procedure until late autumn or replant the plant in the flowering and budding phase.

Transplant methods

For better survival, the plant must be dug up big lump to preserve the maximum number of roots. It is important that the top of the earthen ball is located at ground level, and the root collar is not buried.

Before and after transplanting, water the bush well to displace air from the voids. At least 5 liters of water are poured under young plants, and 1012 liters under adult plants.

Plant propagation

To obtain new specimens of wild species or cultivated varieties, they resort to in various ways reproduction. Getting new plants is easy and quite affordable.

Reproduction methods

For reproduction, 2 main methods are used:

• Seminal;
• Vegetative.

The seed method is used to propagate natural species, and vegetative methods help to obtain new specimens of varietal plants or hybrids.

Propagation by cuttings

Cuttings allow you to obtain a large number of plants and at the same time preserve their varietal qualities. Recommended to use apical cuttings or semi-lignified. The largest percentage of rooted plants can be obtained in a mixture of peat soil and sand when treated with rooting stimulants. Deciduous rhododendrons form roots within 1.52 months, while evergreen species will take 34.5 months to take root.

Propagation by seeds

Seedlings are much better adapted to new conditions, and the amount of planting material obtained can be very impressive. Unfortunately, you have to wait at least 34 years for flowering (and in some species up to 10 years), and in the first years it is better to break out the buds.

Seeds are sown superficially or lightly sprinkled with soil and covered with film to maintain high humidity. Shoots appear in 3-4 weeks. For the first few years, it is not recommended to leave young plants to overwinter in open ground.

Air layering

Propagation by air layering helps to obtain strong rooted plants in cases where rooting of cuttings is problematic. This method is suitable for obtaining single specimens of cellular and hybrid plants. It is more suitable for closed ground or warm regions, since the cuttings may freeze or will have to be separated from the mother plant too early.

Horizontal layering

This method allows for rapid rooting. By August, pinned shoots have few roots. Next year, in late summer or early autumn, the plant can be separated from the mother plant.

Dividing the bush

Strongly overgrown bushes can be divided into several plants, but this method is used quite rarely and the number of plants obtained is small.

Graft

Grafting helps to propagate varietal plants, which is especially important for greenhouse farms that breed and grow them. Seedlings of species plants are used as rootstocks. To carry out successful grafting, you must have the skills and keep the plants in conditions of constant high humidity.

Rhododendron blossom

Abundant and spectacular flowering is the main advantage of rhododendrons, for which the plants are grown.

When a plant blooms, the shape of the flower

Rhododendrons prepare for flowering in advance by laying flower buds at the end of the previous year. In spring, the flower buds are the first to begin to grow. In some species, flowers appear before leaves. The flowering time of most species occurs at the end of April - beginning of June. Flowering is short, but very lush.

Flowers Not correct form, various colors and size, collected in corymbose or racemose inflorescences, less often solitary.

Features of care during and after flowering

During the flowering period, the plant needs abundant watering. After flowering, it is recommended to remove all inflorescences so that the plant does not waste energy on ripening seeds and can lay new buds.

Problems, diseases and pests of a flower

The number of diseases and pests that affect the plant is impressive. Most often occur different kinds rot (roots, buds, root collar), fungal diseases(spotting, chlorosis, rust), bacterial cancer and galls.

Rhododendron is affected by the following pests:

• Rhododendron mite;
• Various types of whiteflies;
• Thrips;
• Snails and slugs;
• Acacia false scale;
• Crows.

Popular types (varieties)

Genus Rhododendron ( Rhododendron) has more than 600 species, most of which grow in the temperate zone.

Note! Using the term garden rhododendron does not mean one specific species, but frost-resistant varieties, hybrids and species that can be grown in the garden. It is better to buy plants with the specified variety or species name.

Deciduous rhododendron has a significant advantage over evergreen species in terms of frost resistance. Evergreen rhododendron tolerates negative temperatures less well and only single species are suitable for growing in the middle zone.

Rhododendron dahuricum

Naturally found on Far East, Siberia, Northern Mongolia and other cold regions, so it withstands the conditions perfectly middle zone. The leaves are leathery, smooth, evergreen, oval in shape. The flowers are large, pink-violet, and can stay on the plant for about 3 weeks. Sometimes it blooms 2 times a year.

Japanese rhododendron (Rhododendron molle subsp. japonicum)

It is considered one of the most beautiful representatives of the genus. Thanks to this, Japanese rhododendron is popular among gardeners and breeders. Belongs to deciduous species. Flowers can reach 8 cm in diameter. The color of the corollas varies from orange to scarlet. Flowering duration is about a month. The shrub looks no less decorative in the fall, when its leaves turn red.

Rhododendron yakushimanum

This species came to cultivation from the highlands of Japan. An evergreen species with leathery dark green leaves. The height of the bush is approximately equal to the width and can reach. 2 m. The flowers are pale pink with noticeable green dots. Varieties with flowers of a more saturated generic color are known.

Schlippenbach's rhododendron (Rhododendron schlippenbachii)

A large deciduous shrub that can develop into a compact tree. Little known and widespread in culture, but very promising due to its high frost resistance and relative unpretentiousness. Flowers up to 10 cm in diameter, fragrant, pale pink.

Rhododendron catawbiense

An evergreen shrub 1.52 m high (in nature up to 4 m), with a tendency to grow in width. Each inflorescence can contain up to 20 large flowers up to 15 cm long. The color of the corollas is lilac-purple, but varieties with white, yellow and violet-red flowers are known. Flowering lasts about a month.

This species became the ancestor of the winter-hardy Marjatta Hybrid series of hybrids, bred by Finnish breeders.

The main problems are associated with the low winter hardiness of many species. Most rhododendrons need shelter for the winter and preparations for wintering must be done correctly. Deciduous shrubs with flexible branches are pinned to the ground so that they are completely under the snow. Evergreen species are covered with spruce branches, and sometimes a covering material, such as lutrasil, is pulled over the spruce branches. The shelter is removed in March-April.

Advice! You should not completely remove the cover from evergreen rhododendrons. It is better to leave some of the spruce branches so that the plant gradually adapts to the sun and does not get burned.

Answers to readers' questions

Plant lifespan

Some species, such as Katevba rhododendron, can grow up to 100 years. Most species in cultivation can live more than 30 years.

Why doesn't the flower bloom?

Rhododendron may not bloom for several reasons:

• The plant was grown from seed and has not yet reached flowering age;
• The landing site was poorly chosen;
• Flower buds suffered from spring frosts or were pecked by birds.

Why do the leaves turn yellow (dry)?

In deciduous rhododendrons, the leaves turn yellow in the fall for natural reasons. At other times, yellowing of the leaves may be due to insufficient watering or, conversely, to flooding of the plant and rotting of the roots. Drying leaves may be caused by pest damage.

Flower care in winter

Most rhododendrons overwinter under cover. It is advisable to monitor its integrity, rake up snow or throw it on branches pinned to the ground.

I have long wanted to purchase such a blooming beauty like rhododendron. I searched on the Internet, read literature, went to markets where seedlings from nurseries are brought.

From all the preliminary knowledge, I learned several things - this is that a beginner should start by breeding a species of rhododendron (it’s better to “tame” fancy varieties later), become familiar with the composition of the soil and the choice of location.

I then planted a Ledebur rhododendron bush and a Daurian species. I fulfilled all the necessary requirements and took into account the advice, my plants did not die, although they grow rather slowly. These two shrubs are similar to each other, now I’m thinking about buying a couple more seedlings.

In this article I want to introduce you to beautiful rhododendrons. You'll learn when they bloom, how to grow them properly, and love them as much as I do.

Shrubs and trees of rhododendrons (Rhododendron) belong to the Heather family; they are evergreen and deciduous. Translated, they mean rosewood; indeed, most species have different shades of pink. And the varieties bred by breeders can be of various shades: from white to purple.

Flowers are in the form of a bell and a funnel, a tube and a wheel, their diameter ranges from one to 10 centimeters. The leaves are elongated and hard; in the fall, some bushes have an extremely decorative appearance.

More than 1000 species of this plant differ both in the shape of the flowers and the coverage of the crown, as well as in height (from creeping shrubs to tall thirty-meter trees).

IN natural conditions grows in temperate climates, preferring moist air and partial shade. That is why rhododendron is so often found in the undergrowth of pine trees and other coniferous trees, on mountain slopes, as well as along the banks of rivers and seas, in swamps and forest-tundra.

The Black Sea coast of the Caucasus, the Far East and Altai, the Himalayas and Japan are not a complete list of places where you can see natural rhododendron thickets. In landscape design, the use of shrubs is very diverse, these include single plantings and group plantings; they are used to landscape sanatorium-resort and park areas and homesteads.

Types and varieties of rhododendron

Anyone who has ever seen this plant in bloom will never forget it - a most beautiful shrub. More than two dozen species of this crop and varieties obtained on their basis are widespread in Russia.

Attention! Deciduous rhododendrons are most suitable for our latitudes; they winter quite well, bloom for a long time, and do not require special care. Every gardener can grow them.

Daursky

A strongly branched plant with pink-violet flowers grows in Siberia and Primorye, East Asia in coniferous forests, on rocky slopes. Suitable for cultivation in the middle zone and the Urals, as well as in the north of Russia.

The evergreen shrub grows up to 4 meters in height (it grows very slowly); some of the leaves do not fall off in the winter. Inflorescences are funnel-shaped, up to 4 cm in girth. Flowering begins in early May and lasts three weeks, sometimes blooming again in the fall.

It is a winter-hardy species, loves light areas and takes root well, blooms very beautifully, has brightly colored leaves, Daurian rhododendron is spectacular all season.

Rhododendron tree

In nature it grows in North America in the highlands. Suitable for growing in the middle zone and other regions of Russia. This is a deciduous shrub with a wide crown (up to 6 meters), grows up to 3 meters.

The oblong green leaves turn purple in autumn and blooms with fragrant white or pink flowers(50 mm coverage) in early July. This fragrance lasts for almost a month. It grows up to 7 centimeters per year.

Loves slightly acidic soils, loose and drained, prefers to be in a bright place. It tolerates winter well and is planted in parks, along roads, as single bushes.

ledebura rhododendron

Another name is Maralnik, it grows in Altai and the Sayan Mountains, forms thickets on mountain slopes and in undergrowth.

Protected in nature reserves. It blooms in May for 2 weeks (sometimes for a month), then beautiful pink-violet inflorescences appear again in the fall. They are quite large (up to 5 cm), and the bush up to 150 cm tall looks very colorful during flowering.

This species is winter-hardy; it does not completely shed its leaves in the winter, but in the spring after flowering they will still fall off, giving way to fresh growth. Growth per year is up to 7-8 cm, crown diameter is more than a meter.

Rhododendron Schlippenbach

Large deciduous shrub with woody shoots. As a garden crop it grows up to 150-160 cm, in nature up to 4 meters. Winter-hardy, but requires shelter. One of the most beautiful rhododendrons with pale lilac flowers with speckles, the coverage of the inflorescence reaches 10 cm.

The leaves are soft, growing at the end of the shoot (5 pieces in a tassel), in autumn green color gives way to ocher-red. It blooms in May-June and is quickly gaining popularity among gardeners.

Countless varieties have been developed by breeders around the world.

April Snow

White double flowers bloom in early spring, the foliage of the bush is strong, height is 160 cm.

Cunningham

The Scottish hybrid is one and a half meters tall and has white flowers with brownish splashes.

Blue Peter

Height 1.5 meters, crown coverage more than 2 meters. The flowers are large (6 cm), blue, lavender in color.

Liesma

Bred on the basis of Japanese rhododendron (up to 2 meters high). Large salmon-colored, orange-yellow flowers have a shiny surface.

Narcissiflora

The bright yellow flowers smell pleasant and have a star-shaped appearance. The shrub grows up to 180 cm.

How to plant garden rhodendron

Advice! To avoid disappointment from the death of an expensive seedling, try to get as much information as possible about the plant you are purchasing. You should not completely rely on eloquent sellers; it is better to prepare for the purchase in advance.

Take the trouble to make sure that the rhododendron is winter-hardy and adapted to our latitudes. Planting does not take much time, and care can be quickly learned.

You can plant the plant in the fall (almost all the buds are removed) or in the spring, when the ground thaws.

We choose a place protected from the wind, in light partial shade. It is important that there are no direct sun rays. Plant in an area that is visible to the eye to watch the flowering.

• We water the plant in the pot before planting so that the root system is prepared for replanting;
• The hole for the plant should be dug 2 times larger than the coverage of the roots;
• We completely remove the natural soil from the hole and lay drainage on the bottom: broken brick, or crushed stone and sand;
• We pour soil for heathers, or the following mixture: peat, leaf soil, humus, fallen pine needles;
• We put the tree in the hole and sprinkle it on top (to the root collar) with the same mixture of soil;
• Water generously, press the soil around and mulch the surface with peat.

Worth knowing! It’s not for nothing that the main ingredient in soil for rhododendrons is peat. This plant loves slightly acidic or acidic soils supplemented with humus.

Shrub care

Since the plant is moisture-loving, you need to water it generously with acidified water (vinegar or lemon), and spray the crown in hot weather. It is necessary to mulch the tree trunk circle to retain moisture.

Important! The root system of rhododendrons is quite superficial and delicate, so loosening is undesirable.

Also, the bushes need to be regularly pruned, removing diseased and dry branches, to form a beautiful habit.

flowering shrub needs feeding. In the first year, fertilizer is applied in very measured doses; in subsequent years, you can water the rhododendron with mullein infusion, diluting it in accordance with the instructions.

Throughout the summer, watering is carried out once every 14 days. complex fertilizers containing phosphorus. In addition to root infusions, spraying the crown is encouraged.

How to propagate rhododendron

The plant can be grown through seeds, layering, cuttings and grafting, as well as by dividing the bush. Since the crop grows very slowly, the seed method is not the best option, and such a bush will bloom no earlier than in 3-4 years. With this method of propagation, all varietal characteristics of the plant are preserved.

Vegetative propagation is more common:

• We root the cuttings by pinning them to the ground in early spring, like other shrubs;
• We also cut cuttings in spring or autumn from young shoots and dig them in a greenhouse or in a pot with nutritious soil (mostly peat, less sand);
• You can divide the bush when it grows, carefully separating parts of the root, sprinkling the sections with crushed charcoal and quickly replanting.

The easiest way, of course, is to buy a ready-made seedling that was grown for you by professionals.

What makes rhododendron sick?

Failures in care - overwatering and underwatering, changing the composition of the soil from acidic to alkaline, strong sun can contribute to diseases. These are rust, chlorosis and spotting, fungal diseases and pests.

If there are problems, we get rid of them with the help of insecticides, adjust the watering and fertilizing regime.

Place in landscape design

Favorite neighbors of rhododendrons are ferns, hostas, and other flowering shrubs. Plants are good in Japanese gardens among stones, in the shade of conifers.

Rosewood bushes are planted alone and in an alley, on the shore of a pond and near a gazebo, in rock gardens and mixborders. Rhododendron will look elegant and impressive everywhere.

There is an opinion that caring for rhododendron is quite difficult, and the shrub itself is capricious, so not everyone will grow it in a moderately cold climate. And only after getting to know this amazing and beautiful plant better, you understand that it’s not a matter of complexity, but the specifics of the culture. Rhododendron isn't complicated - it's just not like everyone else.

A rhododendron bush in bloom - such a beauty is worth the effort!

General requirements for the growing environment

It so happened that rhododendron is considered one of the elite of the flower and decorative kingdom. Having purchased such a valuable specimen, many strive to give it the best place in the garden - in the sun, with fertile soil generously seasoned with humus. Stereotypes come into play that have nothing to do with the real needs of culture, and in this main mistake inexperienced gardeners.

Under natural conditions, most species of rhododendrons grow in the undergrowth, that is, in a special microclimate under the tree canopy, where they are reliably protected from the scorching sun, piercing winds, and drafts. When planting rhododendrons in the garden, they need to create growing conditions, focusing on the principles of life in the natural environment.

1. Light is needed intense, but diffused. It is this lighting in the lower tiers of the forest, and it is this intensity of solar radiation that determines the structure of the leaves and the type of photosynthesis. Evergreen species are more sensitive to excess sun - in open space they get leaf burns.
2. Acidic and well-drained soil. Under natural conditions, most of the root system (and in rhododendrons it is superficial) is located in the deciduous forest litter, consisting of rotted and fresh litter, humus, and podzolic soil. This medium is not very nutritious, has an acidic pH, but is saturated with air, which is important given the structure of the plant’s roots.
3. Symbiosis with fungi is the basis of plant nutrition. The roots of rhododendron, like other members of the heather family, do not have root hairs. The role of supplier of nutrients from the soil to the tissue is performed by the mycelium of mycorrhiza - the simplest fungi that live directly in the cells of the plant. To prevent the mycelium from suffocating, you need constant influx air, so dense clay soils are absolutely unsuitable for heather crops.
4. Increased soil and air humidity. Rhododendrons have a special attitude towards moisture - they suffer from both a lack of water and an excess, especially in cases of stagnation or flooding. The problem is solved by the correctly selected structure of the planting substrate, which must not only be filled with moisture and retain it, but also have sufficient aeration.
5. Protection from winds and drafts. Many, including winter-hardy species that can tolerate temperatures of -30⁰ C and below, suffer from winter piercing winds and drafts. For protection, agrotechnical techniques are used - a protected place, shelter for the winter, planting in groups.

Thus, if rhododendrons are grown taking into account biological features, they will not create any problems and will delight their owners with magnificent flowering for decades.

Evergreen rhododendron in bloom

Correct selection and planting is the key to plant longevity

To prevent purchased rhododendrons from becoming a one-season crop, you should thoroughly prepare for receiving the plant. Agrotechnical measures preceding planting are conventionally divided into several stages - choice suitable variety, stocking components for the substrate, selecting a site.

Plant selection

Agricultural technology for planting and caring for rhododendron largely depends on the species. For those new to gardening, or if you are unsure of the temperature in your area, it is best to start with deciduous varieties. Firstly, they are more adapted to cold climates and do not require crown cover for the winter; secondly, they are not so demanding on moisture and can grow in open sun.

Among the deciduous shrubs, R. canadensis, Japanese, Daurian, Schlippenbach, yellow, and pink are suitable for the middle zone. Moreover, it is better to start with species rather than varieties - they are more viable and resistant to unfavorable conditions.

If you still choose evergreen rhododendrons, start with the Katevbinsky, Caucasian, Yakushimansky species or varieties and hybrids created on their genotype.

Important! When choosing planting material, give preference to plants from local nurseries. Although they are not as attractive as those grown in the mild climate of Europe, they are hardened and adapted to the conditions of the region. The optimal age of the seedling is 3–4 years.

A properly selected variety overwinters well even without shelter.

Selecting a location

The most problematic areas of the garden, unsuitable for light-loving crops, are often suitable for growing rhododendrons - in the shade of trees, on the north, northwest side of buildings. The main thing is that it is secluded, protected from the prevailing winds and midday sun rays in the region.

When placing shrubs under trees, you need to choose varieties of the latter with a deep root system in order to delimit the feeding zones of the plants. Rhododendrons prefer to be grown next to pine trees, junipers, oaks, maples, and apple trees.

Substrate preparation

In our gardens, soil suitable for growing rhododendrons is quite rare, so the planting substrate should be prepared in advance. Necessary components for the soil mixture:

• high-moor (red peat) with an acidic pH;
• coniferous litter, consisting of half-decomposed needles, twigs, cones, mixed with humus and other plant debris;
• river sand or sandy soil (top fertile layer);
• rotted sawdust of coniferous trees.

The substrate is prepared from peat and pine litter in equal proportions with the addition of one part of garden soil or river sand. Needles can be replaced with sawdust, ordinary lowland peat can be acidified by adding sphagnum moss, acidic fertilizers, for example, potassium sulfate or ammonium. The main thing is that the substrate is light, breathable and acidic. If there is nowhere to get suitable ingredients for the substrate, you can purchase targeted soil for azaleas.

Important! One of the reasons why rhododendron does not bloom may be alkaline soil. Such an environment has a depressing effect on the plant - in addition to the fact that it does not bloom, it grows weakly, is attacked by pests, and chlorosis of the leaves develops.

Landing technology

Seedlings grown in containers are planted both in spring and autumn. In the spring, it is advisable to do this before the active growing season begins, approximately in April. The autumn planting month is September, so that the plant has time to take root and adapt before the cold weather.

A mandatory agrotechnical requirement when planting shrubs is to prepare a deep (at least 50 cm) and wide (60–70 cm) planting hole, which is filled with prepared substrate. It is carefully compacted and spilled with water.

Before planting, the seedling is immersed in water so that the earthen lump becomes limp, the roots are straightened and placed in the prepared hole. Another requirement is that under no circumstances should the root collar be buried; it should be at the same level as before transplantation.

After planting, the root zone must be mulched. Pine needles, rotted sawdust, leaves, and straw are suitable for these purposes. Their layer should be at least 5–7 cm thick. Mulch not only retains moisture, but also serves as a light organic fertilizer for rhododendrons.

The shrub loves group plantings - natural thickets reliably protect the shoots from winds and freezing. The distance between seedlings depends on the height of the adult shrub, but not less than 1 meter.

The planting hole is much larger than the size of the root ball - this is a reserve for growth and nutrition for many years to come

Seasons: seasonal concerns

For rhododendron, the specifics of care are determined by seasonal changes: in the spring - emergence from winter sleep and preparation for flowering, in the summer - care about the growth and formation of flowering buds for the next year, in the fall - preparation for winter.

Spring chores

When positive temperatures are established and there are no strong night frosts, the covering material is removed. This should be done in cloudy weather, in several stages, gradually opening the bush, first from the north, and a little later from the south. Leaves that have overwintered without access to light are sensitive to the bright spring sun and can get burned.

In the spring, rhododendron leaves remain curled for some time, not receiving an impulse from the roots, so the first thing to do is to start the work of the root system. To do this, mulch is raked away so that the soil thaws faster. If after a week the leaves are still curled, it means they have lost a lot of moisture and the root zone should be watered with warm water.

After the buds swell, the bush is inspected and frozen shoots and dried branches are removed. If the weather is dry, the plant must be watered at least 2-3 times a week before flowering. Watering rate is 10–15 liters per adult bush.

Important! Water for watering rhododendrons should have a pH level in the range of 4–5 units, otherwise it will alkalize the soil, which is undesirable. To acidify water, dissolve 3–4 g of citric, oxalic, acetic (70%) acid or 15–20 ml of battery electrolyte in 10 liters of liquid.

Spring is the only time of year when rhododendrons can be fed with organic fertilizers. You can only use well-rotted manure; if possible, high-moor peat is added to it. A bucket of this mixture is poured into the tree trunk instead of mulch and watered abundantly.

How to feed rhododendrons in the spring if there is no organic matter? At the end of flowering, fertilizing with Kemira targeted complex fertilizers for azaleas (rhododendrons) is effective. It is completely balanced and, in addition to containing necessary elements nutrition, acidifies the soil.

The evergreen rhododendron is about to open its bright buds

Summer care

After flowering, caring for rhododendron is aimed at replenishing strength for the growth of young shoots and the formation of flower buds. The plant needs the following agrotechnical measures.

• Regular, abundant watering and spraying of the crown with water at summer temperatures during the hottest hours.
• Removing the seed pods so that the bush does not waste energy on ripening the seeds, but directs them to young growth. This should be done in hot weather so that the injured shoot dries out immediately.
• If the plant was not fertilized with Kemira during flowering, it needs June fertilizing with nitrogen-containing fertilizer, for example, ammonium nitrate (25–30 g per 10 liters of water). Nitrogen is needed for the growth of green shoots. Watering rate is 2 buckets of solution per adult bush.
• In addition to feeding rhododendrons in the spring and June, some gardeners recommend applying fertilizers in the second half of July. By this time, the shoot has finished growing, its leaves become dense, leathery, and a flower bud appears at the top. Feeding at this time with a phosphorus-potassium composition guarantees abundant flowering next year.

Advice! For feeding in three doses - in early spring (100 g/m²), during flowering (100 g/m²) and in mid-July (50 g/m²) use the following universal composition of acidic fertilizers. Mix superphosphate (10 parts) and sulfates - ammonium (9), potassium (4), magnesium (2).

By the end of summer, a flower bud has formed at the top of each shoot - now the main thing is to preserve it until spring.

Preparing for winter

An important element of rhododendron care is proper preparation for winter.

An evergreen shrub must be very well saturated with moisture in winter so that it is enough for the long months of cold weather, so it is recommended to water it abundantly in the fall. Deciduous shrubs need watering only in dry weather.

Both deciduous and evergreen species need to cover the root system with a thick layer of mulch (up to 20 cm). The soil is covered in a near-trunk circle to the radius of the crown.

For shelter, a frame of wire or wooden slats is built around the bush - a sort of improvised wigwam. It is covered with spruce branches or covered with 2 layers of breathable covering material (burlap, lutrasil). Low-growing varieties are covered with fallen leaves and pine needles.

Covering an ornamental shrub with spruce branches

When growing rhododendrons, the main thing is to understand their nature, learn to recognize problems and needs based on their condition and appearance bush. The plant is responsive not only to correct agricultural technology, but also to love and care and will certainly reciprocate.

Video about preparing rhododendrons for winter:

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ECOgardener

Everything about garden rhododendron: planting, care, use in garden design

This one is attractive beautiful flowering shrub literally every flower lover wants to have. Garden rhododendron fascinates with the variety of its species and varieties, as well as its flowers, which are painted in different shades. Let's figure out what requirements for planting and care the garden rhododendron has, and also go over the types and varieties (with photos).

Garden rhododendron: planting and care, photos of popular species and varieties

Rhododendron (Rhododendron) - genus beautiful flowering plants family Heather (Ericaceae). Some of them are tropical sissies ( indoor azaleas), others withstand harsh climates well. About 18 species are found in Russia, and we have made a selection of frost-resistant rhododendrons for growing in gardens.

Rhododendron: description of some species

This ornamental crop consists of shrubs or small trees that can be evergreen, deciduous or semi-evergreen. The bare or slightly pubescent branches are covered with harsh and dense leaves.

Quite large flowers, resembling bells, are arranged singly or in inflorescences such as a shield or umbrella. The color of the inflorescences can vary from snow-white and yellow to brownish-purple. Below are frost-resistant types of garden rhododendrons that are used in landscaping and landscaping.

Rhododendron yellow

Deciduous appearance. In natural conditions it can be seen in the North Caucasus. Cultivated since 1972. The height of this spreading beautiful bush varies from 2 to 3 meters. Dense elongated leaves, brightly colored green tint, with the onset of autumn they become dark red or orange-red.

Yellow, very fragrant flowers bloom at the tops of shoots in multi-flowered inflorescences such as a corymb or umbrella. Flowering occurs from April to May, when the leaves bloom. It lasts from three to four weeks.

This species has a large number of varieties, the flowers of which are painted in a variety of attractive shades. Hybrids with double inflorescences have also been created.

Yellow rhododendron reproduces both by seeds and by layering. It has its most spectacular appearance during lush spring flowering and in autumn, when the leaves change color.

Rhododendron ponticus

Under natural conditions it grows on the Caucasian coast of the Black Sea. Beautiful elongated, harsh leaves with a glossy surface are painted in a deep green color. They are located at the ends of the branches of this evergreen shrub in the form of cuffs.

Purple-pink large flowers with spectacular yellow dots can reach almost 5 cm in width. They bloom in corymb-type inflorescences consisting of large quantity flowers. During the flowering period, which lasts almost 4 weeks, you simply cannot take your eyes off this original shrub.

This species is propagated by seeds, cuttings and layering, but the simplest method is propagation using leaf cuttings.

Rhododendron Ledeboura (maral)

In nature it grows among piles of stones and screes. It can be found in the Sayan Mountains and Altai. The crown of this semi-evergreen shrub (about 2 m in height) is formed by numerous thin branches. Small oval leaves mainly overwinter on shoots.

Attractive pinkish-lilac flowers with open petals (about 5 cm wide) are located almost at the very tops of the branches, one or several pieces together. The annual abundant flowering occurs in the month of May. At this time, the bushes are almost completely covered with flowers.

This fast-growing species of rhododendron tolerates transplantation well when young. It can be easily propagated using seeds.

Caucasian rhododendron

On the territory of our country, only high in the Caucasus mountains can you find this type of garden rhododendron. On the northern sides of the mountains and on the slopes of the bushes, continuous thickets quite often form. Caucasian rhododendron bushes about one and a half meters high are formed by thin shoots, some of which lie on the ground.

The leathery leaves, colored deep green, have an oblong shape. Creamy-white funnel-shaped flowers with a greenish tint bloom in inflorescences consisting of 5-7 pieces. Towards the end of flowering they acquire a pinkish color.

Rhododendron daurica (Ledum)

Many forms of this species are difficult to distinguish from Rhododendron Ledebourg. It grows in Asia east from Altai to Korea, the Far East and Japan. In Siberia, on crushed stone soils, there are entire thickets spreading in a pink carpet. The shoots are densely branched, directed upward, the bush reaches 0.7-2 m.

The leathery leaves are first green and then turn brown. By autumn they curl and fall off. The corolla of the flower is lilac-pink or white, flower buds are located at the ends of the shoots. Shade-tolerant and super frost-resistant: tolerates frosts down to -45 °C well. Propagated by root suckers and seeds.

Rhododendron acuminate

Under natural conditions it grows in the Far East. The bush, whose height varies from one to three meters, is formed by a large number of branched shoots.

The green oval leaves have a glossy upper surface. Pinkish-lilac flowers (3 to 4 cm wide), resembling a wide bell, are located on the branches one or several pieces. Abundant flowering, lasting almost three weeks, occurs during the period of leaf appearance (April). Sometimes the acuminate rhododendron blooms a second time in August, but this flowering is much weaker than the first.

Selection

Of course, the specifics of flowering give impetus to the development of more and more new forms; many hybrids have been obtained that are superior in their decorative qualities natural views:

rhododendron hybrid Nova Zembla
rhododendron hybrid Roseum Elegans

rhododendron hybrid Libretto
rhododendron hybrid Midnight Mystic

Place and time for planting, soil requirements

The best place for planting rhododendrons are slightly shaded areas located under the crowns of tall trees, where there is no excess moisture and high level groundwater. But it is worth remembering that some varieties and varieties of deciduous rhododendrons are well planted in well-lit areas, but the soil must be moist. A sufficient amount of light allows the plant to show its spectacular blooms in full glory.

But it is advisable to plant evergreen rhododendrons so that they receive some shade during very hot daytime hours. The best neighbors for this shrub are various conifers.

Rhododendrons should not be planted next to tree crops that have a superficial root system. These are the following trees and shrubs:

It is also undesirable to choose a place for planting next to maples and lindens, which quickly entwine the root system of rhododendrons and take all the moisture.

It is also worth noting that rhododendrons grow well along walls facing north. Most often, in such places, the bushes are protected from strong winds and are not exposed to direct sunlight at noon, but are only illuminated in the morning and afternoon.

The place for planting this ornamental shrub should be protected from powerful air currents, not to mention winds, as they can quickly dry out the leaves of the plants. Evergreen species are especially damaged in winter time.

Soil for rhododendrons

One of the main factors influencing the growth and development of bushes is the composition and acidity of the soil. The optimal pH level is between 4.5 and 5.5 units. Also, the soil should be loose, breathable and sufficiently moist.

The soil pH level can be determined quite accurately by looking at the various crops that grow on it. Plants that are indicators of acidic soils are field mint, horse sorrel, popovnik, willowweed and creeping buttercup. On lands with a neutral and slightly acidic pH, nettles, field bindweed, quinoa and coltsfoot are most often found.

If the soil where the rhododendrons will grow is of unsuitable quality, then it needs to be replaced with a mixture that consists of high-moor peat with sand. Moreover, they take two parts of peat, and only one part of sand.

In the fall, the following organic fertilizers must be added to soil poor in nutrients: rotted manure, straw, fallen pine needles and leaves, sphagnum peat and hay. And next year in spring or summer you can already plant rhododendrons.

Rhododendron: planting and care in open ground

The best time planting is in the spring, before the growing season begins, or when the buds just burst. This period falls in the second half of April – the first ten days of May. Planting can also be done in September, but for this the seedlings must be grown in open ground, thereby preparing them for wintering. If there is an urgent need, rhododendron bushes can be planted at any time, but this should not be done during flowering and immediately after it, since the shoots begin to grow intensively. Container plants can be planted throughout the warm season.

A hole for planting is dug about 40 cm deep, and the length and width should be from 50 to 60 cm. If the soil is very damp, contains a lot of clay or lime, then a drainage layer (about 10 cm) consisting of crushed stone or gravel. Where there is a lot of sand in the ground, a layer of clay is poured at the bottom of the hole to retain moisture.

To fill a hole, a mixture is usually prepared from peat (high peat), sand, and completely decomposed manure (cow). If peat is not at hand, then you can use a combination of heather and turf soil, as well as coarse sand. In this case, take 2 parts of turf soil, 2 parts of heather land, and one part of sand.

When planting, the bush is placed so that the place where the roots begin at the stem is slightly above the surface of the soil, since it will then settle and be at ground level. After planting, make a hole around the plant and water it with plenty of water. It is advisable to mulch the ground near the bush with rotted manure, leaf humus, peat or tree bark.

For planting, container plants are usually chosen at the age of three years. Bushes aged one to two years or 4 years and older are also used. Before planting, rhododendrons are watered. In this case, the plants tolerate transplantation better. If the earthen ball with roots has dried out, then it is placed in water so that it is completely saturated.

If the purchased bushes have flower buds, then before planting most of them must be removed so that unrooted rhododendrons do not spend all their energy and nutrients on flowering. Plants can be replanted at any age, but this work is carried out only in spring or autumn. At the same time, it is worth knowing that large evergreen varieties after transplantation must be protected from strong sunlight during some time.

Rhododendrons in landscape design (photo compositions)

Rhododendrons look amazing when they form groups, especially if they are planted along the edges of the lawn or near houses. They also go great with pools, ponds, and look beautiful near garden decorative fountains. After all, plants are not only moisture-loving, they benefit from humidified air.

Thanks to the variety of species, you can make a magnificent array by combining plants in height:

• plant the tallest ones in the center, and the lower ones at the edges. This will then create a comprehensive review group;
• plant tall ones in the background and low ones in the foreground. This will create a composition in the form of a lectern with a one-way view.

Garden rhododendron looks bright and festive against a dark background of conifers. In addition, the dense crown of conifers will protect these sissies from cold, drying winds and spring sun.

Joint landing rhododendrons with coniferous trees makes it easier to care for - coniferous litter will naturally acidify the soil without our participation. In addition, rhododendrons are constant participants in Japanese-style gardens, as well as beautiful accents on heaths.

According to our experience, for recent years 10 many summer residents were disappointed in this amazing flower - they ran into non-winter-hardy hybrids. But the market is becoming more intelligent, and more and more frost-resistant varieties. So if you find a place on your site with good drainage, then feel free to plant a garden rhododendron. Planting and caring for it, although it requires maintaining moisture and acidity of the soil, you can easily cope with these requirements if you wish, right?

Highly decorative shrubs, abundantly planted with lush inflorescences, are widely used in the design of landscape areas and landscaping of garden and park areas in many countries around the world. But you can grow shrubs yourself, in your garden. It is enough to know the features of planting, care and propagation of this unusual crop for our latitudes. And in order for the shrub to easily withstand harsh snowy winters, it is important to choose the appropriate winter-hardy variety of rhododendron. All the nuances of agricultural technology for growing this exotic crop and practical recommendations gardeners - read this article. A selection of photos and video lessons will complement the general understanding of the process of growing rhododendron in open ground.

Rhododendron, botanical description

• Rhododendron is a typical representative of the Heather family, which unites various types of shrubs, trees and even indoor plants.
• Garden rhododendron is presented as low-growing varieties, the bushes of which literally creep along the ground, and giant lush shrubs reaching a height of 3-7 m.

• Both evergreen and deciduous varieties of tree rhododendrons are grown in cultivation.
• This shrub genus is distributed in temperate latitudes of the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. The growing area in Russia varies depending on the type of plant: from the warm Crimea to harsh Siberia and the Far East.
• Under natural conditions, rhododendrons can grow as single crops or as entire bush thickets. They are found near forests, swamps, on mountain slopes, in the tundra and forest-steppes.
• The plant received its interesting name due to its spectacular appearance during the flowering period. Rhododendron, translated from Greek language, means “rose - tree”. The flowering shrub is densely covered with large flowers reminiscent of roses.

• Flowers Rhododendron flowers are collected in lush inflorescences of a raceme or corymb, with corollas of yellow, pink, purple and red shades. The size of an individual flower can be from 5 to 25 cm in diameter, the shape resembles a disproportionate bell with long and graceful stamens. Due to the combination of flowers into dense inflorescences, the branch looks like a real bouquet. Flowering begins in early spring and continues, in some species, until the cold weather. The fruit is presented in a multi-seeded capsule.
• Escapes can be smooth or pubescent. But the leaves of rhododendrons are very diverse. Depending on the species or variety, they can be perennial or annual, with or without a petiole, ovoid or elongated.
• Root system in culture - fibrous, compact, located close to the surface of the earth. This property important to consider when caring for rhododendrons.

Rhododendron, varieties and species diversity

The species diversity of rhododendrons can be divided into 3 groups:

• Evergreens

Such shrubs do not shed their leaves, even in winter. The leaves are usually dark green, and the flowers are large and of different shades. They prefer light partial shade and well-drained, peat-rich soil.

• Semi-deciduous

An intermediate group of plants, represented by low shrubs that winter well under snow cover. Most of leaves fall off during this period, leaving whorls only at the tips of the branches.

• Deciduous

Shrubs, common to the central part of the country, shed their leaves during the onset of cold weather. The plant is perfectly adapted to winter climate.

The huge variety of rhododendron species allows you to choose a specific variety that is most adapted to certain climate conditions and growing environment. Let's look at the most famous of them.

Rhododendron Daurian

An evergreen woody shrub, with upward-pointing branches, reaches a height of 2-4 m. The leaves are small, with a glossy surface. The flowers are large in size (4 cm in diameter) and purple-violet in color. This species blooms profusely for 3-4 weeks. It is also possible to bloom again in the fall. The species is easily propagated by cuttings and has high winter hardiness.

Adams rhododendron

Winter-hardy, evergreen and low growing bush Arnica is characterized by widely spreading branches. The matte green leaves have an elongated oval shape. The flowers are small, but due to the lush inflorescences, collected in 10-15 pieces, they look very beautiful and impressive.

Japanese rhododendron

The birthplace of the species is Japan. Deciduous branched shrub, reaching no more than 2 meters in height. The leaves of rhododendron are green, slightly pubescent; in autumn they take on colorful orange hues. Large (up to 8 cm in diameter) bell-shaped flowers have a pleasant aroma. The color scheme of the inflorescences is carmine-red. Japanese rhododendron is one of the most attractive and magnificent representatives of this genus.

Caucasian rhododendron

Originally from the Caucasus, the species is an evergreen, low shrub, with branches creeping along the ground. The leaves are dark green, oblong in shape. The flowers are bell-shaped and fragrant, of different color palette, depending on the variety. These can be pink, yellow or purple-white corollas. And various colored inclusions (green, red) allow the flowers to look very original and unusual.

Rhododendron pink

Deciduous ornamental shrub, reaching a height of 1.5 to 3 m. At home (in North America) it can grow up to 5 m. The shape of the bush is compact, with erect branches. Blooms profusely in May with bright pink fragrant inflorescences.

Rhododendron hybrid

It is a large group of rhododendron hybrids. The most popular cultivated varieties of this type of hybrids are:

• variety "Alfred"

An evergreen and compact shrub 1-2 m tall, with large (up to 6 cm) flowers collected in dense and fluffy inflorescences. Corollas - Pink colour, with light green splashes.

• variety "Blue Peter"

A medium-sized shrub (1.5-2 m), with a widely spreading crown, distinguished by the color of its corollas, which is unusual for the species. The delicate blue shade of the ruffled flower, with a bright pink spot on the upper petal, attracts attention with its beauty and expressiveness.

• variety "Rose Marie"

The shrub reaches a height of no more than 1.5 m, and the circumference of the crown is approximately the same. The leaves are oblong, with a waxy coating. Flowers of delicate pink shades are collected in inflorescences of 10-15 pieces.

Winter-hardy varieties of rhododendron

It is a mistake to consider rhododendrons to be a heat-loving exotic crop that is unable to grow in cold climates. Currently, a lot of frost-resistant varieties of rhododendrons have been developed that are perfectly adapted to cold and harsh winters. Many of them are able to winter without additional shelter and withstand very low temperatures (down to -30 ° C).

• "Grandiflorum" (compact bush with purple inflorescences),
• "Nova Zembla" (distinguished by its bright, ruby-colored inflorescences),
• "Caractacus" (medium-sized bush with burgundy-pink corrugated inflorescences),
• "Album Novum" (spherical bush with soft pink flowers),
• “Elite” (spreading bush with inflorescences, contrasting shades, can withstand -35°C),
• "The Hague" ( small bush, with corollas, pink color),
• “Helsinki University” (named after the University of Helsinki, withstands -40°C),
• "Daughter of Pohjola" (spreading, low-growing bush with purple flowers).

Where to buy rhododendron

• To purchase a specific variety of rhododendron, it is best to contact specialized nurseries (for example, the Botanical Garden) or stores. It is there that you can get high-quality and necessary planting material. Besides, experienced flower growers willingly share the secrets and features of growing this crop.
• If you purchase rhododendron seedlings on spontaneous markets, there are risks of purchasing the wrong variety or one not adapted to cold climatic conditions.

Rhododendron propagation

You can grow a crop on your own site, knowing how to reproduce it. Rhododendron, like most shrubs, reproduces using seeds, cuttings, layering, grafting and dividing the bush.

Which method is the most effective and easiest to implement?

Seed method of propagation of rhododendron

Propagating a crop using seeds is a long and not easy task. As a rule, this method is practiced by breeders to develop new varieties. Amateur flower growers will also be able to grow rhododendron from seeds, following a certain technology.

• In early spring, the seeds are sown in containers with a fertile peat-earth mixture (with the addition of sand), covered with glass and placed in a lighted place.
• Sowing is carried out superficially, without planting the seeds deep into the soil.
• Seeds can be soaked in water in advance and kept for a day, which will ensure a higher percentage of germination.
• The soil in the container must be constantly moist. It is better to spray water to avoid stagnation of moisture or waterlogging of the soil.
• Overdrying, as well as waterlogging of the soil, can lead to the death of seedlings.
• Planted in a container and covered with glass or film, the seeds are regularly (daily) ventilated. During ventilation, you need to wipe the glass to remove any condensation that appears.
• The container should be illuminated for at least 12 hours a day. If daylight is not enough, fluorescent lamps are used.
• The first shoots appear after 2.5-3 weeks. After just a month, the grown seedlings can be planted (while diving) into separate pots. At the same time, lower the temperature in the room to 10-12°C.
• In summer, it is better to take the pots outside, placing them in partial shade.

• Seedlings are planted in open ground only next spring.
• Rhododendron grown from seeds will bloom in about 4-5 years.

Propagation of rhododendron by cuttings

• Prepare cuttings by cutting semi-lignified shoots (preferably apical ones), about 8-10 cm long. The lower cut is made oblique.

• After cutting the lower leaves from the shoots, it is recommended to soak the cuttings in a solution of a root growth stimulator for about 12-15 hours.
• Place the cuttings in a soil-peat mixture (as when sowing seeds) at an angle of about 30º, compact the soil and cover with glass or plastic jars. Maintain the temperature in the room around 20-25ºС.
• After their initial rooting (from 2 to 5 months, depending on the variety), plant the cuttings in separate containers for growing and hardening, reducing the room temperature to 10ºC.
• In the spring, plant the cuttings in the soil along with the container and grow them in this way for several more years.
• Rooted developing cuttings, after 2-3 years, are planted in a permanent place.

Reproduction of rhododendron by layering

This type of propagation is recognized by gardeners as the most convenient and simplest, especially for deciduous representatives of rhododendron.

• To “pin” the shoots to the ground, in the spring, select the lowest branch of the bush, dig a small groove under it (up to 15 cm deep) and place the selected shoot there.
• For better rooting, the cuttings are pinned in the middle with a metal bracket (rigid wire), and the groove with the cutting is sprinkled with earth on top. The top of the shoot is not sprinkled, but tied to a wooden peg.

• Layers are provided with regular watering, constantly maintaining a humid microclimate.
• When in the fall or spring, the cuttings have completely taken root, you can separate them from the mother bush and plant them in a new place.
• When leaving the cuttings to overwinter, it is better to provide them with shelter using dry leaves or spruce branches.

In addition to the methods described, rhododendron propagation is also practiced by dividing the bush along with part of the root system. The division procedure can be carried out in early spring or autumn.

Reproduction through grafting is a complex process that requires certain skill and experience. Used for slow-growing rhododendron species.

Rhododendron, planting features

Boarding time

• The plant can be planted in spring and autumn, with the exception of the flowering period and 10-15 days after it.
• Most often, gardeners plant rhododendron in the spring (to avoid freezing of the seedlings).

Landing location

• Preference should be given to a semi-shaded, windless place, preferably on the north side of the garden.
• The shrub does not really like direct intense sunlight or too shaded places.
• You should not plant the crop in places where there is stagnant moisture.
• It is also important to pay attention to the “neighbors” of the rhododendron: trees and shrubs with a shallow root system will become competitors on the site, which can affect the lack of moisture and nutrients.

The soil

• The soil should be acidic, loose, fertile and drained.
• Rhododendrons do not tolerate alkaline or neutral environments.
• Heavy clay substrates inhibit plant growth. But the presence of peat in the soil will ensure optimal development of the bush.

Agricultural planting technology

• Given the superficial location of the numerous rhododendron roots, it is necessary to dig a shallow (about 40 cm) but wide (up to 60 cm) hole.
• The hole should be twice the actual size of the seedling.

• At the bottom of the hole, pour a drainage layer (15-20 cm) of pebbles, crushed stone or pieces of slate, then sprinkle with a mixture of loam and peat (1:2).
• Having compacted the soil mixture, the seedling is placed vertically in the hole. Fill it with soil up to the root collar and compact the soil.

It is important to place the root collar at the level of the soil surface! Otherwise, the plant will wither and may die!

• When planting in poor soil, add organic and mineral fertilizers.
• Water the planted seedling generously with water.
• Additional mulching (5-7 cm) of the tree trunk circle will ensure moisture retention. Foliage, moss, pine needles or peat are used as mulch.
• In the case of planting rhododendron with buds or inflorescences, it is better to remove them, directing all the efforts of the plant to successfully rooting the shrub.
• When planting a crop in groups, leave a gap between the shrubs, depending on the future size of the species (from 0.5 to 2 m) and the intended purpose of the crop. For example, if growing rhododendron involves “ hedge", they are planted much more often (30-40 cm).
• In the first days after planting, the shrub should be protected from direct sunlight and sprayed with water more often.

The shallow root system of rhododendron makes it easy to replant young shrubs without damaging the roots and quickly taking root in a new location.

Rhododendron, plant care rules

When growing rhododendrons in your garden, you need to know how to properly care for the plant so that it will delight you with its lush flowering and beauty for as long as possible.

Watering

• Rhododendron is a moisture-loving plant, but at the same time it does not tolerate excessive waterlogging. Although the lack of moisture has a detrimental effect on the crop.
• The need for watering is visually noticeable in the condition of the leaves of the bush: if they have become less shiny, yellowed and wither, the rhododendron needs watering. In addition, lack of moisture significantly shortens the flowering period of rhododendron.

• Watering with acidified soft and settled water has a beneficial effect on the bush. To prepare such water, you need to add several handfuls of high-moor peat to the water a day before watering.
• In case of dry summer and autumn, additional winter watering is carried out. late autumn, before the onset of frost.

Loosening and mulching

• Considering the shallow location of the roots of rhododendrons, it is necessary to very carefully weed out weeds and loosen the soil near the bush.
• Deep loosening or digging up the area can damage the roots, after which it will be difficult for the plant to recover.
• To retain moisture, the soil around the trunk should be mulched. Materials that increase soil acidity are used as mulch.

Feeding and fertilizing

• Fertilizers that preserve the acidic soil environment are suitable for rhododendron: superphosphate, potassium nitrate and sulfate, magnesium sulfate, ammonium or calcium.
• Fertilizers are applied in low concentrations in liquid form.
• As an organic fertilizer, use an aqueous solution (1:15) of half-rotted cow manure. The solution is infused for several days. Pig and horse manure reduce the acidity of the soil, so their use is not recommended.
• Rhododendrons are fed 2-3 times per season, from early spring until the end of the growing season (in August).

Trimming

• If the rhododendron bush is uniform and regular in shape, it does not need pruning.
• If the bush is too thick and overgrown, there are protruding, dry, damaged branches - they are pruned in early spring. Thick sections (2-4 cm) are treated with garden varnish or paint to avoid infection.
• Gardeners recommend pruning faded buds to ensure the same abundant flowering next season.

Shelter for the winter

• Most varieties of rhododendron grown in cold and harsh winters, need winter shelter. Young seedlings must be prepared for wintering.

• Cover the bush in late autumn by wrapping it with roofing felt, burlap or film. Covering with spruce branches or foliage (in the case of low-growing rhododendron) is also practiced.
• In the spring, remove the shelter when the weather is consistently warm (+10 C).

Pest and disease control

• Slugs or snails can settle on the bush, which are simply collected by hand.
• If the plant has bugs, scale insects, spider mite, mealyworm or rhododendron flies - you cannot do without treatment with a special fungicide. In such cases, “Tiram”, “Karbofos”, “TMTD”, “Diazin” are used.
• If rhododendron is affected by fungal diseases (rust, spotting, chlorosis), you should pay attention to the watering regime and ensuring aeration of the plant roots. Chlorosis is destroyed using iron chelate, rotten branches are completely removed, and for the purpose of prevention and treatment, the entire bush is treated with Bordeaux mixture in spring or autumn.

Applications of rhododendron

• The main purpose of the shrub is decorative. Therefore, landscape designers have long chosen this unusual beautiful plant and use it to decorate and landscape gardens, parks, and adjacent areas.

• Shrubs look impressive both in single plantings (as the central accent of the composition) and in groups (creating a hedge or flower frame). A successful combination Any low-growing coniferous plants, ferns, or heather will be suitable for blooming rhododendron.

• Some varieties of rhododendron, due to their medicinal properties, are used in folk medicine. The medicinal substances contained in the plant: arbutin, andromedotoxin, rhododendrin, ascorbic acid have calming, analgesic, antipyretic and bactericidal effects. Considering that many varieties of rhododendron are poisonous, the plant should never be used without consulting a doctor.

The main advantages of the plant are long-lasting and decorative flowering. The richness of colors of lush inflorescences abundantly located on the bush impresses with its sophistication and beauty. By following the simple requirements for caring for rhododendron, you can grow this wonderful plant on your own site.

Rhododendron, photo

Video: “Garden rhododendron: planting and care” part 1

Video: “Garden rhododendron: planting and care” part 2