Planting Rhododendrons Successfully: The 5-10-10-10-5 Method

Planting Rhododendrons Successfully: The 5-10-10-10-5 Method

A homeowner wanted to replace scraggly forsythia under a sweetgum tree with a purple rhododendron. The recommended variety for the South is Rhododendron catawbiense 'Purpureum Elegans' with blue-purple flowers.

The 5-10-10-10-5 Planting Method

1. Spade up a 5-foot diameter area, 10 inches deep.
2. Add 10 gallons of soil conditioner and mix thoroughly, creating a 10-inch high mound.
3. Plant the rhododendron in the center.
4. Mulch with 5 gallons of mini bark chips.

This method ensures excellent drainage and organic matter, leading to success with rhododendrons, azaleas, and camellias.