Rhododendron cultivation methods and precautions
This article introduces the cultivation methods and precautions of rhododendron, as well as the related introduction of green plants and flowers that teach you the tips for cultivating rhododendron. Keep reading!
When potting rhododendron, there are 4 details to pay attention to, otherwise it will be difficult to keep the plant alive due to yellow leaves and withering.
Also known as "Azalea," rhododendron has lush green leaves and beautiful flowers, which are highly ornamental and loved by gardening enthusiasts, earning the title of "The Western Beauty of Flowers." So how can we cultivate beautiful rhododendron at home?
Rhododendron thrives in a moist and cool environment, with slightly acidic soil being preferable. Daily maintenance should focus on the fertilizer concentration, applying "thin and frequent" fertilization, and keeping the plant in a semi-shaded environment, avoiding direct sunlight in the summer.
I. Soil requirements for planting
Rhododendron has fine roots and strict requirements for growing soil. It needs fertile, loose, and well-ventilated soil with a pH value between 4.5 and 6. You can mix pine needle soil, decomposed leaf soil, and mountain soil in a ratio of 2:2:6 to create a nutrient-rich, loose, and breathable growing medium.
II. Reasonable watering
Rhododendron prefers moist soil and does not tolerate drought. The watering frequency varies at different growth stages. During hot and dry summers, it's necessary to often spray water on the leaves to increase humidity. During the vigorous growth period and the bud formation stage, more water should be added to ensure sufficient moisture for growth. If the soil is dry during the growing period, the leaves can easily wither and turn yellow, new leaves may not fully expand, and the plant may stop growing, or even all leaves may turn yellow and die.
Rhododendron cultivation methods and precautions
If the plant lacks water during the flowering period, it can cause the flowers to fall, fade in color, and shorten the flowering period. Similarly, if there is too much watering in daily maintenance, leading to long-term excessive moisture or waterlogging in the pot, it can also cause yellowing leaves, falling leaves, and root rot. If rhododendron exhibits these conditions, it should be promptly moved to a well-ventilated environment and the watering amount controlled. If yellowing is severe due to excessive watering, it's necessary to repot and change the soil.
III. Fertilizing to increase nutrients
Rhododendron has a high demand for water and fertilizer, and the type of fertilizer required varies at different growth stages. In spring, when rhododendron is in its growing period, the fertilizer should be mainly nitrogenous to promote the growth of branches and leaves. At this time, you can apply some decomposed cake fertilizer or manure to the pot, but be careful not to apply raw, undecomposed fertilizer.
July to August is usually the period for rhododendron bud differentiation, when phosphorus fertilizer should be increased. You can apply some bone meal or monopotassium phosphate to promote bud differentiation and increase the number of flowers. After each application of fertilizer, be sure to water thoroughly to dilute the fertilizer concentration and avoid burning the rhododendron roots. Loosen the soil to increase aeration, which is more beneficial for the healthy growth of the plant.