Rhododendron

This popular genus includes spring-blooming rhododendrons and azaleas, both producing large clusters of colorful flowers.

About This Plant

Best in cool, moist summers. Bloom late spring to early summer. Colors: pink, red, violet, yellow, white. Size varies hugely: 1–2 feet to 20+ feet—choose carefully. Generally rhododendrons evergreen; most azaleas deciduous (some evergreen).

Special Features

• Attracts hummingbirds
• Shade tolerant

Planting Instructions

Spring or fall. Space 2–6 feet per mature size. Hole as deep as rootball, 2–3x wide. Poor soil: amend removed soil with little compost; else don't amend. Set plant, backfill halfway, water, drain, finish backfill, water.

Care

Spring: compost to dripline + 2-inch mulch (away from trunk). Water if rainfall <1 inch/week. Severe winters: protect evergreens in fall with burlap. Prune dead/damaged/diseased anytime. Prune for height after spring flowering—regrows from old wood.