What rhododendrons love. Dark Rhododendron Description

There is an opinion that caring for the rhododendron is rather complicated, and the shrub itself is moody, so not everyone takes it in a temperate-cold climate. And only when you get closer to this amazing and beautiful plant, you understand that it is not a matter of complexity, but the specificity of culture. Rhododendron is not complicated - it is just not like everyone else.

Rhododendron bush in bloom - such a handsome man is worth the effort!

General requirements for the growth environment

It so happened that rhododendron belongs to the elite of the flower and decorative kingdom. Having acquired such a valuable specimen, many seek in the garden to allocate the best place for him - in the sun, with fertile soil, generously seasoned with humus. Stereotypes work that have nothing to do with the real needs of the culture, and this is the main mistake of inexperienced gardeners.

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

Light needs intense, but diffused. It is such lighting in the lower tiers of the forest, and it is this intensity of solar radiation that determines the structure of leaves and the type of photosynthesis. Evergreen species are more sensitive to excess sun - in open space they receive leaf burns.
Sour and well-drained soil. Under natural conditions, most of the root system (and in rhododendrons it is superficial) is located in a deciduous forest litter, consisting of overripe and fresh litter, humus, and podzolic soil. This medium is not too nutritious, has an acidic pH, but is saturated with air, which is important given the structure of the roots of the plant.
Symbiosis with mushrooms is the basis of plant nutrition. The roots of the rhododendron, like other representatives of the heather family, do not have root hairs. The role of the 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. So that the mycelium does not suffocate, a constant flow of air is needed, therefore dense clay soils are absolutely not suitable for heather crops.
High humidity of the soil and air. Rhododendrons have a special relation to moisture - they suffer from a lack of water and from excess, especially in the case of stagnation or flooding. The problem is solved by the correctly selected structure of the planting substrate, which should not only be filled with moisture and hold it, but have sufficient aeration.
Protection against winds and drafts. Many, including winter-hardy, species that tolerate temperatures of -30 ° C and below suffer from piercing winter winds and drafts. For protection, agricultural techniques are used - a protected place, shelter for the winter, planting in groups.

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

Evergreen Rhododendron in Bloom

The right choice and planting is the key to plant longevity

So that the acquired rhododendrons do not become a culture of one season, you should thoroughly prepare for the reception of the plant. Agro-technical measures preceding planting are conventionally divided into several stages - the selection of a suitable variety, stocking of components for the substrate, and selection of a site.

Plant selection

The agricultural technology of planting and caring for rhododendron is largely dependent on the species. For beginners in gardening, and also if you are not sure about the temperature of your area, it is better to start with deciduous varieties. Firstly, they are more adapted to cold climates; in winter they do not require sheltering crowns; secondly, they are not so demanding on moisture and can grow in the open sun.

From deciduous shrubs, R. Canadian, Japanese, Daurian, Schlippenbach, yellow, pink are suitable for the middle lane. And it’s better to start with the species, and not the varieties — they are more viable and resistant to adverse conditions.

If you still chose the evergreen rhododendrons, start with the Katevbinsky, Caucasian, Yakushiman 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 correctly selected variety winters well even without shelter

Seat selection

For growing rhododendrons, the most problematic areas of the garden are often suitable, unsuitable for photophilous crops - in the shade of trees, from the north, north-west side of the buildings. The main thing is that it should be secluded, protected from the prevailing winds in the region and midday sunlight.

Having the shrub under the trees, you need to choose the varieties of the latter with a deep root system in order to distinguish between the nutrition zones of plants. Rhododendrons prefer growing in the neighborhood of pine trees, junipers, oaks, maples, apple trees.

Substrate preparation

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

horse (red peat) with an acidic pH;
coniferous litter, consisting of semi-decomposed needles, twigs, cones, mixed with humus and other plant debris;
river sand or sandy soil (upper fertile layer);
rotted sawdust of conifers.

The substrate is prepared from peat and coniferous 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 moss-sphagnum, acidic fertilizers, for example, potassium sulfate or ammonium. The main thing is that the substrate is light, breathable and with an acid reaction. If there is nowhere to take 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 not blooming, it weakly adds to growth, is affected by pests, and leaf chlorosis 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 beginning of the active vegetation, tentatively, in April. The autumn month of planting is September, so that before the cold weather the plant has time to take root and adapt.

An obligatory agrotechnical requirement for shrub planting is the preparation of a deep (not less than 50 cm) and wide (60–70 cm) planting hole, which is filled with a prepared substrate. It is carefully compacted and spilled with water.

Before planting, the sapling is lowered into the water so that the earthen lump is sour, the roots are straightened and placed in the prepared hole. Another requirement is that in no case can the root of the neck be deepened, it must be at the same level as before the transplant.

After planting, the root zone is necessarily mulched. For these purposes, conifer needles, rotted sawdust, leaves, straw are suitable. 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 likes group plantings - natural thickets reliably protect shoots from winds and freezing. The distance between the seedlings depends on the height of the adult shrub, but not less than 1 meter.

Landing pit far exceeds the size of the root coma - 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 spring - withdrawal from winter sleep and preparation for flowering, in summer - concerns about the growth and laying of flowering buds for the next year, in autumn - preparation for winter.

Spring chores

With the establishment of positive temperatures and the absence of strong night frosts, cover material is removed. You need to do this in cloudy weather, in several steps, gradually opening the bush first from the north, and a little later from the south. Leaves wintered without access to light are sensitive to the bright spring sun and can get burns.

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

After swelling of the buds, the shrub is inspected and removed frozen shoots, dried branches. If the weather is dry, the plant must be watered at least 2-3 times a week before flowering. The norm of watering is 10-15 liters per adult bush.

Important! Water for irrigation of rhododendrons should have a pH level in the range of 4–5 units, otherwise it will alkalize the soil, which is undesirable. In order to acidify water, 3-4 g of citric, oxalic, acetic (70%) acid or 15–20 ml of electrolyte for batteries are dissolved in 10 l of liquid.

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

How to feed rhododendrons in the spring, if there is no organics? At the end of flowering, top dressing with targeted complex fertilizers of Kemir for azaleas (rhododendrons) is effective. It is fully balanced and, in addition to containing the necessary nutrients, acidifies the soil.

Evergreen Rhododendron is about to open bright buds

Summer care

After flowering, the care of the rhododendron is aimed at replenishing the forces for the growth of young shoots and laying flower buds. The plant needs the following agricultural activities.

Regular, plentiful watering and spraying of the crown with water of summer temperature in the hottest hours.
Removing seed bolls so that the shrub does not spend energy on ripening seeds, but instead sends them to a 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, June supplementation with nitrogen-containing fertilizer, for example, ammonium nitrate (25-30 g per 10 liters of water) is needed. Nitrogen is needed for the growth of green shoots. Irrigation rate - 2 buckets of mortar per adult bush.
In addition to feeding rhododendrons in the spring and in June, some gardeners recommend that fertilizers be applied in the second half of July. By this time, the shoot ends the growth, its leaves become dense, leathery, and a flower bud appears at the top. Top dressing at this time with a phosphorus-potassium composition is a guarantee of abundant flowering for the next year.

Advice! For top dressing 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. Superphosphate (10 parts) and sulfates are mixed - ammonium (9), potassium (4), magnesium (2).

By the end of summer, a flower bud is formed at the top of each shoot - now, most importantly, keep it until spring.

Winter preparations

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

In winter, the evergreen shrub should be very well saturated with moisture so that it lasts for many months of cold weather, so it is recommended to water it abundantly in autumn. Deciduous shrubs need watering only in case of 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-stem circle for the radius of the crown.

To shelter around the bush, they build a frame of wire or wooden battens - a kind of improvised wigwam. It is surrounded by fir branches or covered with 2 layers of breathable covering material (burlap, lutrasil). Low-growing species are covered with fallen leaves, needles.

Shelter of ornamental shrubs with fir spruce branches

When growing rhododendrons, the main thing is to understand their nature, to learn to recognize problems and needs by the state and appearance of the bush. The plant is responsive not only to the correct agricultural technology, but love and care, and always reciprocate.

Video about preparing rhododendrons for winter:

– this is a charming ornamental plant for your garden. But it is not easy to grow in our area. The homeland of this flower is the Mediterranean, which indicates its thermophilicity and poor tolerance of frost. Therefore, in order for the plant to take root, it will be necessary to observe all the conditions of proper agricultural technology and provide it with proper care. Today we’ll talk about how to choose the right seedlings for planting rhododendron in your area, about the features of this process, and also pay attention to the subsequent care and preparation of the rhododendron for winter. In addition, information regarding its use in landscape design will be equally useful.

The right choice of planting material

For planting, two or four year old rhododendron bushes are best suited. When buying, pay attention to the bushiness of the cuttings of the seedling (the most tenacious branch immediately near the root neck), and its leaves (should be free of spots and swelling). Also, be sure to inspect the roots of the seedling, it is unacceptable that they have wet blotches and nodes. The place where you get seedlings is also important.

It’s best to buy them from experienced gardeners or special nurseries, and not desirable - in the markets, since they have much less chances (most sellers simply do not know what varieties and types they sell).

Important! Beginners are advised to start not with a particular variety of rhododendron, but with a planting species. Since the species is less whimsical, and more frost-resistant than the variety obtained on its basis. Despite the fact that varieties are very tempting with their wide variety of shades, the species are also distinguished by the variety of colors.

Planting Rhododendron in the Garden

When planting a rhododendron in a garden, it is necessary to be guided by certain instructions when and where to plant a rhododendron, how to do it correctly, and how to prepare the soil.

Did you know? Woody Rhododendron - National Flower of Nepal. In this country, rhododendron is used in the form of pickled flowers, and in the form of juice.

When to Plant Rhododendron

It is recommended to plant rhododendron in the ground from early April to mid-May, and from September to November. But in fact, this can be done at any time during the growing season of the plant, in addition to the flowering period of rhododendron, and a couple of weeks after flowering.

Where is the best place to plant rhododendron

It is better to plant rhododendron in a shady place, on the north side of the house. The soil should be loose, acidic, well-drained, rich in humus. When the groundwater in your area lies at a depth of less than one meter, the planting is carried out on a raised bed. When planting rhododendron, it is also important to pay attention to neighboring plants.

It is undesirable to plant rhododendron close to trees with a superficial root system, because they will take away all the nutrients from the plant. Undesirable neighbors should also include birch, willow, maple, chestnut, linden, alder, and the inhabitants of the area near which rhododendron can be planted include apples, pears, pines, spruce, larch, poplar.

How to prepare the soil and plant rhododendron

First of all, prepare the pit for landing. The pit is dug approximately 40 cm in depth, and about 60 cm in diameter.
Then prepare a mixture of eight buckets of peat and three and a half buckets of loam (loam can be replaced with two buckets of clay). Thoroughly mix this mixture, pour into a hole, and compact well.
After that, dig a hole in the ground the same size as the root ball of the seedling.
Before planting directly, put the rhododendron seedlings in water and hold them there until air bubbles cease to stand out.
Place the seedling in the hole and sprinkle the pit with the substrate to the very top so that the root neck is at the level of the surface of the plot, ramming it to eliminate all voids.
Water the plant abundantly and mulch the soil around the trunk with peat, moss, sawdust, oak leaves, or pine needles, with a layer of about 5-6 cm.

Important! If there are many flower buds on a seedling, then it is better to remove them so that all the forces of the plant are aimed at rooting the rhododendron, and not at its flowering.

The combination of rhododendron with other plants and use in landscape design

Rhododendron will find its place in the landscape design of almost any style. The plant looks excellent in the role of a tapeworm, and in group compositions, and in the latter case, it is perfectly combined with conifers, and with other types of flowering plants. It is best to select the species with which rhododendron grows in the natural environment - pines, larch, ferns, junipers, and others.

Rhododendron is perfect for decorating rocky gardens and alpine slides. For this, low-growing species of rhododendron with different flowering periods are suitable. To compose them, making out rocky slopes, it is possible with gentian, mountain pine, heather.

Medium-sized species of rhododendron are often used in group plantings in the form of live fences, with the selection of the desired shades of the plant. For example, rhododendrons with yellow flowers combine perfectly with those shrubs that bloom in red and bright orange flowers, and rhododendrons with purple and pink flowers with plants that bloom in white.

Shrubs planted on the lawn or along garden paths and borders look good, especially when decorating the ground lawn, although in this case only adult shrubs of rhododendrons are suitable (at least ten years).

When creating group compositions with rhododendrons, it is recommended to combine evergreen species with deciduous, while correctly mixing plants of different heights. In the center of the composition, tall shrubs look better, and on the edges - undersized.

Proper care of the rhododendron in the garden

Rhododendron care consists of the usual procedures for plants: top dressing, watering, spraying, weeding, pest and disease control, and bush formation.

Important! Loosening the soil around the plant is prohibited, and even more so digging it up, since the roots of the rhododendron are placed too close to the surface. For the same reason, weeds are best removed manually without using choppers.

How to water

Rhododendron requires atmospheric and soil moisture more than other plants, especially when buds are formed and during flowering. It should be watered regularly, and in dry weather it should also be sprayed with water. Proper watering affects the laying of flower buds of rhododendron next year. Water the plant with soft water (settled, thawed, or rain), which can be mitigated with the help of a handful of horse peat, thrown a day before watering.

The frequency of liquid application is determined by the condition of the leaves: for example, when they are dull and lose their elasticity, then the plant is thirsty. When watering, the soil should get wet to a depth of 20-30 cm.

Important! When watering, you can not fill in the roots of the rhododendron, because they are very sensitive to excess moisture. To learn about the excess fluid can be lowered and curled leaves.

How to feed a plant

The first feeding of rhododendron takes place in early spring, and the last - at the end of July, at the end of the flowering period, when young shoots begin to grow. It is possible to apply half-rotted cow manure and horn flour for plant nutrition. Rhododendron prefers liquid top dressing, so manure is poured with water (ratio 1:15), and left to infuse for a couple of days. Before fertilizing rhododendron, it should be watered.

If we talk about mineral fertilizers, in order not to disrupt the reaction of the environment (rhododendron grows in acidic soils), it is best to use superphosphate, ammonium sulfate, low concentration magnesium (1.2: 1000), and even weaker potassium fertilizer solution.

The optimal feeding regimen involves the application of organic or mineral nitrogen-containing fertilizers at the rate of fifty grams of magnesium sulfate and fifty grams of ammonium sulfate per square meter (fertilizers are applied to the soil in early spring), and at the end of the flowering period (in early June) - per square meter should there are forty grams of ammonium sulfate and twenty grams of potassium sulfate and superphosphate. In July, twenty grams of potassium sulfate and superphosphate are added per square meter.

Did you know? Honey from the nectar of some types of rhododendron, has hallucinogenic and laxative properties. Even the ancient Romans and Greeks talked about the side effects of honey from rhododendron.

How to prune rhododendron

Rhododendron requires minimal formation and pruning, as its bushes themselves form the correct shape. Nevertheless, from time to time it will be necessary to trim too tall, frozen or old shoots, which will help rejuvenate rhododendron. Rhododendron shoots cut off in early spring, and the places of cuts are treated with garden varieties (but only where the thickness of the branches reaches 2-4 cm).

Within a month, the sleeping buds on the shoots are awakened, and the renewal process begins, which lasts for a year. Heavily frozen or very old bushes are cut at a height of 30-40 cm from the ground - one half of the bush in the first year, and the second - the next.

Important! Rhododendrons have a characteristic feature: in one year they bloom and bear fruit generously enough, and the next year it is already much more modest. To get rid of this periodicity, it is necessary to break off withered inflorescences immediately after flowering. Then the rhododendron will use power and nutrition to form flower buds for next year.

Preparing for winter and sheltering a rhododendron

Prepare rhododendron for winter is necessary in advance. To do this, from the end of summer, you should stop feeding the plant with nitrogen, and switch to potash fertilizers (this will help the maturation of late growths). You can also add colloidal sulfur to the soil, which will acidify the soil and slow down the growth of fungi.

Rhododendron flowers are considered to be popular and interesting plants that act as decoration of any garden. They belong to the genus of deciduous or semi-deciduous trees and shrubs. They are part of the Vereskov family. The literal translation of the name of this plant is rosewood, since the inflorescences really resemble unique and attractive roses in appearance.

Rhododendrons

Note! Rhododendron flowers can vary significantly in size and shape, as well as in color, which allows you to choose the best type of plant for each grower.

Description of Rhododendron

Rhododendrons grow in nature in Japan and the Himalayas, and are also found in North America and Southern China. Often grow on the coast of different seas, rivers or oceans.

Features of garden rhododendrons include:

is a shrub equipped with leaves of different configurations and sizes, and the shrubs can be annuals, biennials, or perennials;
sessile or petiolate, as well as serrate or ovate leaves;
rhododendron is incredibly popular due to the attractive appearance of the leaves, but the most beautiful are flowers that have white, pink, purple or red edema;
flowers are collected in brushes or shields, so they form quite large bouquets, striking in their decorativeness and sophistication;
rhododendron flowers can have a different shape, which completely depends on the variety and type of plant, so they can be funnel-shaped or tubular, bell-shaped or wheel-shaped;
many varieties of flowers have a unique pleasant aroma;
pentate leaves, which contain many seeds, act as a fruit;
rhododendron seeds do not exceed 2 mm in length;
the root system of the plant is compact;
the roots are located on the surface of the earth, so rhododendron transplantation is a simple and quick job.

Note! This flower is in demand in the territories where beekeeping apiaries are arranged, since rhododendron is an early spring honey plant.

Types and varieties of rhododendron

There are a huge number of different types of rhododendron, but the most popular are:

Daurskyrhododendron. It is found in nature near coniferous forests or on rocks. It is represented by an evergreen shrub, characterized by significant branching and medium height. Its height varies from 2 to 4 m. It has a gray bark and long branches pointing up. The leaves are small, since they usually do not exceed 3 cm in length. Moreover, the plates on top are smooth, and on the bottom they are scaly. Some leaves stay on the bush throughout the winter. The flowering of this rhododendron lasts about 3 weeks, and inflorescences appear until the leaves bloom directly. The flowers have a funnel shape and purple-pink color. Their size in diameter reaches 4 cm. Flowering in autumn is often repeated. The species is considered resistant to frost and propagated by cuttings.

Rhododendron dauricum (Rhododendron dauricum)

Japanese rhododendron. This species in nature grows in Japan, and is considered one of the most attractive and interesting. It is represented by a branchy shrub, the height of which is within 2 meters. It has bare shoots, some of which may have silver bristles. The leaves of this rhododendron are distinguished by a green color and an oblong shape. They have soft pubescence on both sides. In autumn, they acquire a reddish tint. Flowers have a bell-shaped shape, and their size in diameter is approximately 8 cm. They are collected in racemose inflorescences of approximately 8 pieces. They have an orange or red tint.

Japanese Rhododendron (Rhododendron japonicum)

Hybrid. This includes many varieties obtained by combining different types of rhododendron. The most popular varieties are: Blue Peter, Alfred and Rose Marie.

Rhododendron Blue Peter

Rhododendron Alfred

Rhododendron Rose Marie

Thus, before the direct acquisition of a particular species or variety of rhododendron, one should determine which variety is optimal for growing.

Rhododendron - Landing

Russian climatic conditions are considered not too suitable for this plant, therefore, only winter-hardy varieties are selected. The planting procedure is accompanied by certain features:

it is recommended to plant rhododendrons in the soil in the interval between the beginning of April and mid-May, and it is also allowed to carry out the process in the fall, namely in October;
it is not allowed to realize planting during the flowering period, therefore, usually this process is performed 2 weeks after its completion;
for planting rhododendron, it is advisable to choose shaded areas of the territory, therefore, the northern side of the structure is considered optimal;
loose soil is prepared with a high acidity, and it is desirable to additionally add humus to it;
the soil must be well drained;
if groundwater is located close to the surface of the earth, it is recommended that the rhododendron be planted using a raised bed;
optimally plant a plant next to an oak or larch, as well as other trees whose roots go deep into the ground;
an optimal landing pit is created for planting a rhododendron, the diameter of which is approximately 60 cm;
its depth should be about 40 cm;
a mixture of peat and loam is poured into it, since these components are considered optimal for creating a high-quality planting mixture;
this mixture is well rammed in the pit, after which a hole is made in it, the dimensions of which are completely equal to the root coma of the prepared seedling;
it is recommended that the rhododendron seedlings be well prepared, for which they are lowered into the water before planting and kept there until air bubbles appear on the surface;
the roots of the plant are lowered into the prepared hole, after which the pit is filled with a substrate;
it is well rammed, since the presence of voids is not allowed;
if the soil is not moistened well in advance, after planting, the rhododendron is well watered, and it is important that the soil is moistened about 20 cm in depth;
the trunk circle is mulched with peat, and oak leaves or moss are also used for this;
if a rhododendron seedling equipped with a large number of buds was purchased, then some of them are eliminated so that all the forces of the plant are directed to rooting;
to protect against wind, it is recommended to use a support, moreover, it bends towards the winds, and it is removed after the rhododendron bush is well rooted.

Note! With the right planting process, the root neck of the seedling is at ground level.

Rhododendron Care

These plants are considered easy to care for, therefore, light actions are performed for optimal growth:

it is not allowed to loosen or dig up the soil near the bushes of rhododendron, since it is easy to damage the roots located near the surface of the earth;
weeds are removed exclusively by hand, so you can not use a chopper or other auxiliary tools;
rhododendron is considered a specific plant that needs a lot of moisture, not only in the soil, but also in the atmosphere, and this is especially true during the period when buds are formed or the flower begins to bloom;
it is recommended to water the flowers with exceptionally soft and settled water;
it is allowed to add a little peat to the water a day before its use;
the amount of irrigation of rhododendron is quite easy to determine after examining the condition of the leaves, since if they become dull, it is necessary to water them;
it is necessary to water with a significant amount of water to shed the soil to a depth of about 30 cm, but it is not allowed to flood the roots strongly, as this can lead to lowering and folding of leaves;
it is recommended in hot weather to additionally spray rhododendron leaves;
pruning the plant is performed minimally, since the bushes themselves form an attractive and regular shape, but sometimes it is necessary to cut excessively high bushes;
frozen shoots are removed by pruning, and this process must be performed in early spring;
slices are processed by garden var;
dressing for all rhododendrons is certainly introduced, and this process must be performed in early spring and in the middle of summer after flowering has ended;
it is advisable for this plant to use liquid fertilizers obtained using horn flour and cow manure;
before using top dressing, water the plant well;
rhododendrons are grown in acidic soil, so fertilizers suitable for such soil are selected.

Note! A specific feature of rhododendron is that in one year it affects an abundant and attractive flowering, but the fruiting and flowering worsens the next year, and to prevent such consequences, it is recommended to remove wilted inflorescences after flowering, as this will lead to the fact that all the forces of the plant will be aimed at the formation of new kidneys.

Thus, there is no particular difficulty in caring for the rhododendron, so if you carefully study all the rules, they will always please you with abundant and beautiful flowering.

Rhododendron after flowering

In autumn, plants need to be watered well in dry weather. If the rains are regular, then you can not water the rhododendrons at all. In November, bushes near the roots are insulated, for which a fairly dense layer of peat is used.

For optimal wintering, it is recommended to cover the plants with burlap under which spruce or pine branches are laid. Such a shelter is removed in early spring after the snow melts.

Diseases and pests of rhododendrons

Often on the plant there are pests:

spider mites, bugs and weevils, moreover, they should be destroyed with diazinon;
flies and mealybugs, as well as snails, scale insects and other pests, are removed by karbofos.

Fungal diseases are common in rhododendrons, which include cancer, rust, or leaf spotting. Usually, their appearance is associated with poor aeration of the roots. To eliminate diseases, copper sulfate or other special preparations are used.

From chlorosis, rhododendrons turn yellow, so when watering, it is recommended to use water with the addition of iron. Cancer shoots are removed, and the entire plant is treated with Bordeaux liquid for prevention.

Rhododendron in the suburbs

Many people are interested in the possibility of growing rhododendron in the suburbs, as this plant impresses with its sophistication and attractiveness, so it can become an ornament of any site.

Note! Many people acquire a plant, plant on the territory and observe the attenuation of rhododendron, and this is due to improper care of it.

The main features of growing a flower in the suburbs include:

exclusively frost-resistant varieties that withstand a significant drop in temperature are selected;
landing is carried out in the spring and in the place where there is a partial shade;
close proximity of rhododendron with other colors is not desirable, so a distance of about 1 m is left between them;
it is recommended to purchase a special primer intended for rhododendrons;
the pit for planting is 2 times larger than the root system of an existing seedling;
if there is clay soil, then a drainage layer is made at the bottom of the landing pit;
it is not allowed to significantly deepen the root neck of the rhododendron;
the seedling is watered after planting;
necessarily carried out balanced, regular and deep watering;
if a lot of sunlight falls on the rhododendron, then it is recommended to cover it with gauze or net;
mulching of the circles near the plant is carried out, but it is not allowed to loosen or dig the flower.

Thus, the key to effective and optimal growth and development of rhododendron in the suburbs is its competent landing and proper care.

Rhododendron Properties

Rhododendron has not only an attractive and unique appearance, but also some useful properties. These include:

in some varieties, ascorbic acid is present, and its content is maximum in the summer;
rhododendron is used to reduce pressure, get rid of edema and shortness of breath, and also helps to remove excess fluid from the body;
can be used as an antipyretic and analgesic;
used to calm.

Note! Rhododendron is not a harmless plant, therefore it is forbidden to take it to pregnant and lactating women, as well as people who have kidney diseases.

Rhododendrons flowers - photo

Rhododendron Mother’s Day

Thus, rhododendron is a beautiful plant whose growth and flowering require optimal care. With a competent approach, a truly attractive and vibrant plant is obtained, which becomes a real decoration of the territory. It can be used to treat various diseases due to its many beneficial properties.

These shrubs are magnificent during flowering. In the early nineteenth century, the gardens of Russia first began to adorn rhododendrons. Varieties, outdoor cultivation, planting, care, reproduction: we cultivate rhododendrons in accordance with all the rules.

Description of rhododendron: varieties and varieties

The genus of rhododendrons is quite extensive - more than 1,000 species, which include diverse varieties of this wonderful plant. The natural distribution range of rhododendrons is limited to the eastern countries: China, Japan, Korea, the Himalayas; Some varieties of plants are found in the Caucasus, North America, northern Africa and Australia. In European territory, two varieties of rhododendron grow in the mountainous regions of Germany.

Rhododendron is a magnificent plant with a long flowering period.

The culture refers to flowering deciduous or evergreen shrubs of the heather family. Branches of a plant may have smooth bark or pubescence. Leathery, dark green, small, egg-shaped leaves are sometimes pubescent. The flowers are bell-shaped, funnel-shaped, simple and double. The color of the petals varies depending on the variety: white, pink, lilac, red, purple. Modern varieties of rhododendron are yellow and orange in color. Numerous small seeds ripen in boxes.

Rhododendrons, the cultivation of which in Russia is most acceptable, is limited to 26 species belonging to three groups of plants.

Evergreens are tall shrubs that do not shed dark, leathery foliage even in winter. Large flowers are painted in different colors and tones. The cultivation of evergreen rhododendrons in open ground requires compliance with a number of necessary rules: plants are placed in places with a diffuse shadow; the soil for them should include a large amount of peat.

Rhododendron evergreen

Tip: It is important to choose the right neighborhood for the evergreen species of rhododendron, especially when designing territories in landscape design. It can be all types of conifers, heather, ferns grown in open ground.

Intermediate (semi-evergreen) - low shrubs, wintering well under a layer of snow. The plant is characterized by a compact form, a huge number of flowers during the flowering period. In winter, the main part of the leathery leaves fall, there remains only a whorl of leaves at the ends of the branches, from the center of which new foliage grows.

Semi-evergreen Rhododendron

Deciduous - rhododendrons of this group are most adapted to the conditions of the Russian climate. Growing these plants is not difficult, and the plants themselves do not need to specially adapt in the winter. Flowering in spring, repeated in autumn.

Deciduous rhododendron, grade "Fireworks"

Planting a plant

Rhododendron: planting and caring for plants in compliance with agrotechnical rules - plant transplants are allowed in spring and autumn. In the fall - in any of the three months, in the spring - in warm, settled weather, when the soil is no longer frozen (usually April or May).

The choice of a place for planting a plant must be carried out with special care. Rhododendron plantings should be protected from the prevailing wind and direct sunlight. It is important that the shrub is accessible for viewing, then the decorative appearance of the plant during the flowering period will adorn the territory and delight the eye.

Tip: before planting a plant from a container in open ground, it should be thoroughly saturated with water.

A landing pit for rhododendron bushes is prepared based on the actual size of the root system, and should be 2 times larger in volume. Natural soil should be removed completely. To plant a plant, it is required to prepare a special earthen consisting in equal parts of heather land; peat; garden soil or leaf humus; rotted manure; needles (pine).

It is very important to plant the plant correctly, then it will quickly take root

The prepared pit is filled with a mixture, it prepares a place for planting a rhododendron bush, which must be placed strictly vertically. The soil around the root system of the plant needs to be tightly squeezed - the formation of voids and "pockets" in the planting soil is not allowed. With a high level of groundwater, it is necessary to provide for the laying of a special drainage layer on the bottom of the pit. After planting, the topsoil should be mulched with peat crumb.

Rhododendron: proper watering

Watering the planted plant is carried out at the time of planting, - plentiful, sufficient to moisten the soil to a depth of 20-30 cm. Subsequent irrigation of the rhododendron should be done with soft, acidified water, with complete moistening of the soil.

Tip: When planting a plant with buds, it is necessary to remove most of them.

Plant care

A transplanted plant requires attention and careful care. In addition to regular abundant watering, rhododendron needs to be sprayed on foliage, especially when planting in late spring. The soil must be mulched to maintain sufficient moisture. When mulching, you should choose options that increase the acidity of the soil.

The plant needs regular watering

The root system of rhododendrons consists of gentle, thin hairs that look like tangled hair, so loosening the soil, especially deep, should be excluded from flower care measures. Weeds grown next to the plant must be removed periodically.

The appearance of the plant will immediately report a lack or excess of water - the rhododendron leaves will begin to turn yellow and fall off. Watering is required in sufficient quantities, but without overflow, this is one of the main rules for caring for the crop.

To ensure proper care of the rhododendron, it is important to carry out timely pruning of overgrown bushes. Places of cuts to prevent infection of the plant, smeared with paint or garden var.

Bushes need to be trimmed periodically

Compliance with simple requirements for caring for a plant will allow you to grow a wonderful flowering bush.

Fertilizer and fertilizing rhododendron

In the first year, transplanted plants already require thorough fertilizer, which is applied in a highly diluted form, in small portions. The plant itself will signal the need for fertilizer application: it will stop growing, discard foliage or the leaves will change color, the formation of flower buds will stop.

Organic fertilizer for feeding rhododendron bushes is a semi-decomposed manure that needs to be infused in water. Feeding is carried out with an aqueous solution of manure. To increase the formation of flower buds, as well as to extend the flowering time, granular superphosphate, or double superphosphate, which scatters on moist soil under plants, is used. Useful to the plant and top dressing with microelements - fertilizers are applied in the form of watering or spraying the green mass of the bush. It is required to fertilize bushes intensively until the end of August.

Rhododendron before flowering

Rhododendron Reproduction

Growing rhododendron involves the propagation of plants by layering and seeds, dividing the bush, grafting, cuttings.

Seed propagation A great way to get plants with improved traits. Sowing is carried out from late December to late March. The second period, suitable for seed reproduction of rhododendrons is the end of November.

Sowing seeds is carried out in shallow plates or boxes filled with a nutritious mixture of peat, sand, coniferous and sod land, taken in equal proportions. Seeds are pre-soaked for a day. Sowing is carried out on the upper soil layer, not deeply embedded in the soil. Humidification of the crop is done by spraying. It is required to provide seedlings with 12-hour illumination with fluorescent lamps. The timing of seed germination depends on the variety. The first flowering of seedlings is possible in 3-4 years.

Rhododendron seeds

This method has its advantages, but with seed propagation of rhododendrons it takes up to 5-6 years to obtain full-fledged plants.

Faster new plants can be obtained with vegetative methods of propagation of the culture: cuttings, dividing the bush, rooting layering.

Diseases and Pests

Fulfillment of the requirements for agricultural technology of rhododendrons guarantees excellent growth and development of plants. However, overmoistening or overdrying of the soil, alkaline reaction of the soil, sunburns of leaves, which are allowed repeatedly, can provoke a surge in crop diseases.

Plants can be damaged by spotting, rust and chlorosis. Disease control measures - improving the conditions of plants, the use of special means to combat diseases. Often, rhododendron diseases are caused by pathogenic fungi: gray rot, fusariosis, late blight.

Spotting - a fungal disease of rhododendron

Pests damaging rhododendrons: slugs and snails eating young leaves and buds. The collection of these pests is done manually. In addition, the plant is harmed by bugs (rhododendron), spider mites, mealybugs, weevils, scale insects, rhododendra fly. Getting rid of pests is not difficult with the use of systemic insecticides.

Rhododendron: combination with other plants

Planting in combination with conifers and a heather group has a positive effect on the development of rhododendrons. In this case, remember the height of the rhododendron bush. Low cultivars should be placed away from the dense shade of mature trees, but avoiding direct sunlight.

Blooming rhododendron magnificently sets off conifers

An excellent combination is observed when shade-loving ferns and a host are located near the rhododendrons.

In landscape design, rhododendron is an indispensable attribute for decorating penumbra landings. The huge advantages of the plant are its long and very decorative flowering. Rhododendrons are widely used in the design of heather gardens, as an addition to the plantings of pine groves. Looks great plant in mono plantings.

Rhododendron in landscape design

Low-growing varieties of rhododendrons are planted near the alpine hills, in mixborders and on decorative flower beds.

Planting a garden rhododendron: video

Types of rhododendron: photo

A wide variety of species is represented by the rhododendron plant - it can be a shrub, a shrub and even a tree. Their dimensions can be completely different: from small, creeping shrubs to tree-like varieties growing up to 30 meters in height. There are representatives with leaves falling in the winter and evergreen specimens. Indoor azalea also belongs to this genus. The distribution area is also very extensive: from Asia to North America.

This plant belongs to the heather family. The flowers that adorn the rhododendron shrub are tiny or very large, up to 20 cm in diameter. Color pleases with a variety of shades. Petals most often fold into a pipe, forming funnel-shaped flowers collected in lush inflorescences. In beauty, they are not inferior to the queen of flowers - the rose. The leaves also vary greatly in shape and arrangement on the stem.

Types and varieties of culture

Rosewood Rhododendron

Pink rhododendron has incredible beauty: planting and caring for it does not cause any problems. This species has become one of the most beloved among gardeners. It is often called a rosewood, as it can reach two-, three-meter growth and is generously decorated with bright, pink-purple flowers, forming beautiful inflorescences of 5-9 pieces that exude a wonderful aroma. It grows slowly, over a year the shoots grow only by 5-8 cm. For the winter it discards foliage, winters well, tolerates frosts to -30 ° C.

Varieties of pink rhododendron

Amoyen's beautiful pink-colored rhododendron planting and care for which will allow you to get a whole cloud of pink flowers, characterized in that it belongs to the evergreen species. No less remarkable variety from this category is the Pierce American Beauty rhododendron: planting and care for which does not differ from standard approaches to the maintenance of other representatives of the genus.

This shrub grows up to 1.8 m, and in breadth grows to 3 meters. During flowering, it is all covered with raspberry-pink balls of inflorescences, in which you can count up to 18 beautiful, bell-shaped flowers. The diameter of each of them is about 7 cm, in shape they resemble a wide funnel. The upper petals are decorated with dark brown specks. The bush blooms for a long time and abundantly, for 20 days delighting the soul with its splendor.

Rules for planting rhododendron in the country

In order for the care of the rhododendron to give good results, it is necessary with all responsibility to approach the choice of a site for its placement.

Correctly planted rhododendron and caring for it in the future, following simple rules, will ensure lush flowering of the bush. Russian climatic conditions are not suitable for all types of plants. Therefore, cold-resistant varieties suitable for temperate latitudes should be selected. There are a great many of them, and some of them were mentioned above.

Selection of a site and neighbors

It all starts with the selection of a site in the garden where a shrub will grow for many years. There are a few things to consider. Firstly, the roots of the plant creep almost at the very surface of the earth. Therefore, the garden rhododendron is demanding on the neighbors: planting and caring for it include a mandatory point - a careful selection of the environment. It depends on whether the shrub will develop normally, whether it will burn out, as well as the quality of its flowering.

Which neighbors are better?

It is categorically contraindicated to plant rhododendron next to trees with surface roots - spruce, linden. It is not recommended to place bushes near birch, maple, aspen, chestnut. They will not leave a chance to rhododendron to get water and nutrients in full. It is best to plant it next to a pine or oak, as their rhizomes go deep underground. You can plant seedlings nearby with fruit trees, but in such a way that they are not in constant shadow from the crown.

Choosing the right site

Regarding the choice of the site, it must be reliably protected from the wind and the scorching sun. It is advisable to protect the branches of the plant from the aggressive effects of sunlight in the summer at noon and afternoon. You can plant a plant next to the fence or wall of the house, facing north or northeast. No matter how strange it may seem, but it is these cardinal points that are the best choice for rhododendron.

Why north or northeast?

The fact is that the plant has a property that everyone who is going to plant it needs to know about, so as not to ask the question later: why does not the rhododendron bloom and its leaves burn? The bud forms a shrub at the end of summer and during the fall. The most beautiful flowers appear in spring. During the last days of winter - the first spring days, the kidneys under the influence of the bright sun begin to actively lose moisture. Under the condition of sunny February and March, their complete dehydration may occur.

Before the roots wake up (and this will not happen before April), the buds of future buds may completely lose their ability to bloom. For the same reason, burning leaves. Therefore, it is very important to protect the shrub from the early, active exposure to the sun in spring. Otherwise, from the bush it will not be possible to wait for flowering or it will open its flowers - bells only from the north side.

Planting Rules

It is best to plant rhododendrons in the spring. The root system of the bush does not differ in large dimensions, therefore, for it, it will be necessary to prepare a pit with a depth of 0.5 m and a diameter of 0.7-0.8 m. If you plan to plant several bushes, then, depending on the variety, it is necessary to leave a distance of 0.8-2 m, so that the plants do not overlap each other with a crown.

Plants of this genus love watering, but do not live in constantly marshy soil. This must be taken into account and drainage should be laid at the bottom of the excavated hole. Its layer should be about 18 cm. After this, soil consisting of peat, land of deciduous forest and coniferous litter is laid. All components are taken in a ratio of 2: 3: 1 and thoroughly mixed. A bush is planted in the prepared hole. His neck should not go deep into the ground; it should be several centimeters high above the ground. The soil surrounding the planted bush needs to be crushed a little and carefully watered.

Features of outdoor care

It does not require much labor and effort from a gardener rhododendron: planting and care in the open ground involves a classic set of techniques.

The most important of them is top dressing, since the root system is very close to the surface of the soil and cannot get nutrients from the depths of the earth. Ash should immediately be excluded from the list of fertilizers suitable for the plant. It lowers the acidity of the soil, due to which the foliage on the bushes may turn yellow. What fertilizers are best for rhododendrons?

Regular plant nutrition

Speaking about how to feed rhododendron, you should first pay attention to the incompletely rotted coniferous land, similar to peat with the remnants of needles. It not only levels the acidity of the soil, gives beneficial substances to the plant, but also acts as a mulching agent. You can also use regular peat, which, like coniferous humus, must be laid out around the bush, trying not to sprinkle the outlet from which the branches grow. From industrial preparations, Kemira-universal granular top dressing or any liquid mineral fertilizers suitable for this species are used to nourish the vitality of the plant.

Rules of watering and irrigation of crops

The plant loves watering, it is especially important to ensure that the soil around the bush does not dry out in the first year of life. Normal tap water is not suitable for rhododendron. Her composition is too heavy for him. It is better to use rain or river water, as it is softer. From time to time, the irrigation fluid is acidified with drugs that can be purchased at specialized stores. However, if top dressing is used, made specifically for rhododendrons, and constant mulching with coniferous humus is also carried out, it is not necessary to acidify the soil.

Spraying and loosening of the bush

Rhododendrons prefer moist air. It is noted that more magnificent inflorescences open where there are ponds in the vicinity. If such "natural moisturizers" are absent, then once every 7 days it is necessary to arrange spraying on the plant. Water requirements remain the same as when watering. It is better to spray plants in the morning or evening hours when there is no scorching sun. The land near the bush does not loosen, because you can damage nearby, superficial roots. It is better to carefully remove the weeds manually, so as not to touch the root system of the bush.

Propagation of the Rhododendron Plant

Rhododendron can be propagated in several ways. Before propagating rhododendron, it is necessary to determine for the purpose of breeding. If the grower plans to get a new plant that completely matches the original variety, then the bush should be propagated vegetatively using cuttings or cuttings. When breeding wild varieties of shrubs, you can use the seeds of the mother plant.

Seed Breeding

In the spring, seeds are planted in separate containers or containers with soil. Soil is prepared from two components - peat and sand. They are taken in equal proportions. You do not need to deepen the seeds, they are simply scattered on the surface of the substrate and crushed with a small amount of river sand. Then the earth is poured in boxes. Tap water should be slightly acidified with oxalic acid. It is bred in a minimum amount - only 3-4 grams per ten-liter bucket. Boxes are wrapped in foil and placed in heat.

Seedling care in spring and summer

After 20 days - 1 month the first seedlings will appear. The film is removed, and the boxes are placed in a cool room (t- + 8 ° С - + 12 ° С). Watering is done in pallets. When the soil mixture is completely saturated, the water from the pallets is drained. In the summer, containers with young seedlings are taken out to fresh air, placing them out of direct sunlight. For the first time, seedlings dive in June. At the same time, they are placed, departing 1.5 cm from the previous sprout.

Winter seedlings care

For the winter period they are brought into the house and winterized at t- + 18 ° С. At this time, they need additional illumination using fluorescent lamps. Daylight hours for normal seedling growth lasts at least 16 hours a day. At the end of winter, plants dive for a second time. Now, between the seedlings, the distance should expand to 3-4 cm. After three years, the shoots are moved to a constant place of growth.

Cuttings of rhododendron at home

When grafting, flowering will come next year. Cuttings are cut from stems half lignified. Their length is 5-8 cm, the lower edge is cut obliquely. The foliage located below is cut off, and 2-3 leaves on top are not removed. Seedlings are placed in containers with a mixture of sand and peat (equal proportions), or from three parts of sawdust and 1 part of river sand. At the same time, they are not buried directly, but under a slope, the angle of which should be within 30 ° C. They compact the earth around them and build a shelter made of polyethylene.

The temperature during rooting should be around +24 ° C. We should not forget about lighting up and maintaining good humidity. Rooted cuttings are transplanted into boxes with a mixture of peat and coniferous litter (2: 1) and maintained, observing a temperature of + 8 ° С - + 12 ° С until spring. 14 days after transplantation into boxes, they are fertilized with urea (solution concentration -2%). When stable spring heat sets in, the finished seedlings are planted in the ground.

Indoor Rhododendron: Why Is Azalea Fancy?

The azalea flower is sometimes called indoor rhododendron: planting and caring for it at home often fails, as all the necessary conditions for it are not observed. In most cases, it grows in mountainous areas, which determines its love for moist and cool air and acidic soil. In apartment conditions it is difficult to find a room with t + 10 ° С -15 ° С, where the azaleas will be comfortable. Besides the fact that dry, warm air is destructive for the flower itself, it also causes some diseases of the home rhododendron, such as, for example, the spider mite. Therefore, choosing this capricious flower, you must immediately make sure that the plant lives "with comfort", otherwise all efforts will be reduced to zero.