Planting rhododendron
Plant rhododendron in early spring or fall. Dig the hole
twice as wide as the root ball or pot. Dig the hole as deep as the root ball is
tall. The top of the root ball
should be about 2 inches above the level of the surrounding soil, so return
some of the soil to the bottom of the hole to lift the shrub. Set the root ball in
the hole and return the removed soil around the root ball. Water to settle the
soil.
Spread 2 to 4 inches of mulch (wood chips for example)
around the shrub. Keep the mulch about 2 inches from the stem of the
shrub. Mulch helps to retain moisture and helps to block weed growth.
Care
Water weekly for the first month after planting if there is
no rain (sandy soil may require more frequent watering). If planting in the
spring, continue to water twice a month into fall. After the first year,
rainfall should provide enough water. Fertilize, if desired, using a commercial
fertilizer specifically designed for use on rhododendron. Apply according to
the manufacturer's instructions. There is no need to prune rhododendron except
if a branch is dead or damaged.
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