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| Cultural Information | |||
| Rhododendrons are native to many parts of the world. Therefore, it is not surprising that there may be a wide range of cultural requirements to consider. There are tropical rhododendrons (Vireya) that can not tolerate freezing conditions, but also, there are rhododendrons that are native to the arctic and while they tolerate subzero winters, they may not be happy with warm summers.
In general rhododendrons and azaleas require a slightly acid soil and prefer good drainage with some shade. They do not need a great deal of fertilizer and once established, require a minimum of attention. These plants may be pruned to achieve a desired size or shape, however their natural habit varies from ground hugging dwarfs to small trees. Therefore by selecting a variety with the desired characteristics , the size and shape will be obtained almost automatically. If the appropraite plant has been selected, pruning is necessary only to to remove broken or dead branches. Hardwood leaves, pine needles, and shredded bark make good mulch for rhododendrons. Rhododendrons and azaleas appreciate being mulched in the fall, but do not like having their mulch raked away in the spring. Thier roots are near the surface and are likely to be damaged during the removal, so leave it in place. In time these materials decompose and enrich the soil. |