One of our most popular plants in the garden or park. The enormous variety of species and colors of rhododendrons turns many hobby gardeners into passionate collectors. Even if the plants are considered robust and easy to care for, the question arises about the correct care and planting time
When is the ideal planting time for rhododendrons?
The best time to plant rhododendrons is in autumn from early September to mid-November or in spring from early March to mid-May. In both cases, the soil should be frost-free and not too wet to ensure optimal growing conditions.
When is the best time to plant rhododendrons
To plant rhododendrons, as with other woody plants, the best time to plant rhododendrons is autumn from early September to mid-November. The spring planting season begins in early March to mid-May until the leaves emerge. Provided it is plus temperatures and the ground is no longer frozen.
Advantage: when planted early in autumn, the plants root well in the warm soil, form new roots more quickly and get through the winter better. The spring planting season begins at the beginning of March to May. The advantage of spring planting is that many varieties can be selected during their flowering period.
This is how rhododendrons grow well and thrive
Whether rhododendrons are planted in autumn or spring - planting rhododendrons takes place in the following steps: First, carefully loosen any bale cloth or wire mesh that may be present, but do not remove it! Immerse the rhododendron in water for 5 minutes so that the root ball is soaked.
Step 1 – Prepare and plant rhododendron location
Dig the planting pit with a spade until it is three times the size of the root ball. In poorly permeable soil layers, avoid water accumulation under the bale by using gravel drainage. Now mix the excavated soil in the same proportions with moist, preferably light peat (€15.00 on Amazon) and some sand.
Place the rhododendron in the middle with the ball only 3 cm deeper than when propagated. No more!Deeper insertion results in a lack of air and inhibits new root formation. Then carefully spread the soil around the ball and press it lightly. Create a casting edge with the remaining excavation - particularly important on slopes.
Step 2 – Rhododendron care after planting
After planting, pay particular attention to sufficient soil moisture. And water thoroughly – about 8-12 liters per rhododendron. Water weekly in dry weather. Important: uniform soil moisture, no waterlogging.
Tips & Tricks
Pay attention to fertilization when planting rhododendrons! Avoid adding fertilizer in the fall. After planting in spring, sprinkle 15 to 30 g of complete fertilizer around the plant and scratch in lightly. Under no circumstances should you add fertilizer to the planting hole, otherwise there is a risk of root damage.
