How to grow Rhododendron

Rhododendron · azalea

Evergreen or deciduous woodland shrubs, including the azaleas, grown for their spectacular flowers from spring to early summer. Most are fully hardy, and nearly all need acid soil.

Quick facts

Type	Shrub
Family	Ericaceae
Light	Partial shade
Soil pH	5–6
Frost	tolerates light frost
Where it grows	Open ground

When to plant

Planted as a young plant from a nursery while it is dormant — in early spring before the buds open, or in autumn after leaf fall.

Frost dates · When to plant

Care

Open ground

Stage	Watering	Temperature	Feeding
Growth	every 7 days	—	—
Flowering	every 7 days	—	—
Winter rest	—	—	—

Growing notes

Light

Dappled shade in a sheltered spot; avoid deep shade, frost pockets and early morning sun.

Soil

Moist but well-drained acid soil, pH 5.0–6.0, rich in organic matter; on alkaline soil grow it in a pot of ericaceous compost.

Care

Plant in October or March–April, no deeper than just covering the surface roots, and mulch with 7.5 cm of conifer bark, renewed each spring. Water a young plant about once a week in dry spells, with rainwater where possible; the roots must never dry out. In good acid soil it rarely needs feeding; potted plants get an ericaceous feed in spring. Remove spent flower heads and do any pruning straight after flowering. All parts are toxic if eaten.

Sources

Figures checked against these sources.