Rhododendrons

Conduct your own investigation before planting in your area.

Rhododendrons are among the more spectacular evergreen, flowering shrubs with large flower heads. Depending upon variety they may be pink, red, white, purple, or creamy white.

In recent years Georgia gardeners, through travel and popular publications, have become aware of a special group of plants - the hybrid Rhododendrons.

Rhododendrons are among the more spectacular evergreen, flowering shrubs with large flower heads. Depending upon the variety they may be pink, red, white, purple, or creamy white.

Not all these hybrids are satisfactory in the south. In fact, very few have been found to be successful due to our summer heat and soil conditions such as drainage and aeration. A few of the beautiful hybrids have been grown as far south as Columbus and Macon. Extreme care in selecting varieties, exact climatic conditions, exact planting and care techniques are essential. Exposure and soil conditions do not permit much variation.

Location, location…

Rhododendrons thrive under high light but direct sun results in scorching and burning of foliage and short life of flowers. The ideal location is one that is under high branched trees, a northern exposure, and near streams or lakes. Soils are extremely critical with drainage and aeration most important. Low areas must be completely avoided because Rhododendrons cannot tolerate even short periods of standing water.

Improving the soil…

Most Georgia soils must be improved for Rhododendrons. Three to four inches of leaf mold, finely ground pine bark, peat moss plus one inch of coarse sand must be thoroughly worked in the top 10 - 12 inches of a planting bed. Many gardeners have found setting the plants slightly higher than surrounding ground to be successful. Rhododendrons must not be allowed to settle any deeper than they grew in the nursery or container. A three inch layer of bark or rotted leaves will help maintain a cool soil and prevent rapid evaporation of soil moisture.

Fertilizing…

Care must be exercised in fertilizing. Rhododendrons are light feeders. Heavy applications can stunt growth or kill the plants. Azalea/Camellia fertilizers with slow releasing nitrogen are good. General purpose fertilizers may be used. Among them are 8-8-8 at the rate of 1-2 teaspoons per foot of height in March, May, and July. Spread fertilizer uniformly over the mulch underneath the canopy of the plant. Thoroughly water fertilizer into the soil.

Watering is a key factor in Rhododendron culture. Heavily mulched plants will need thorough weekly watering during the first two years. A water tip: lay the hose underneath the plant; turn the faucet to a slow drip… leave for 1 - 2 hours and then move to another plant. Do not sprinkle because it causes very shallow root development that will be susceptible to drying and heat.

Before buying Rhododendrons check with your fellow gardeners on their successes and failures.