How to grow rhododendrons well
Let me tell you how to grow rhododendrons and related knowledge about rhododendron maintenance, which is very useful experience and knowledge. It is recommended to save it for later reference!
Rhododendrons are flowering plants that are very beautiful and have always been popular with people. However, because rhododendrons are very demanding in terms of their growing environment, many flower enthusiasts start to see dry, yellowed, and withered leaves after a period of time. Therefore, it is commonly believed that rhododendrons are very difficult to grow. In fact, if you master four key points, rhododendrons can also be relatively easy to grow.
1. Maintain a humid environment
Rhododendrons prefer a warm and humid environment. Many rhododendrons purchased cannot adapt to the new environment and start to show dry leaves after a short period of time. This is caused by the dryness of the new environment. After purchasing a rhododendron, do not rush to repot it. Instead, place it in a cool and ventilated area. During maintenance, regularly spray water around the potted plant to keep the air environment humid. Only after the plant adapts to the new environment should you repot it.
2. Avoid direct sunlight
Rhododendrons are not tolerant of strong sunlight. Direct exposure to sunlight can easily burn the leaves, causing dryness and leaf drop. Especially after entering summer, move the rhododendron pot to a cool and ventilated environment or set up a sunshade net to avoid direct sunlight. Of course, rhododendrons still need some scattered light during the growing season. If they do not receive sunlight for a long time, it can lead to excessive growth and affect normal flowering during the blooming period.
3. Supplement with ferrous sulfate
Rhododendrons are typical acid-loving plants. They cannot grow well in ordinary garden soil. When potting them, it is essential to prepare a loose, fertile, and well-draining acidic potting soil. If the potting soil becomes alkaline and starts to harden during the growing period, repotting is necessary. Additionally, apply a dilute ferrous sulfate solution once a month to prevent iron deficiency-related yellow leaves.
How to grow rhododendrons well
4. Do not water too frequently
While rhododendrons enjoy a humid environment, they are also susceptible to waterlogging. If you water them too much or if the pot often has standing water, the plant will develop yellow leaves. This is because the soil is too moist, and the roots cannot breathe properly, leading to root damage and an inability to absorb nutrients.
Therefore, when watering rhododendrons, do not do it too frequently. Only water when the topsoil has dried, which is what we often call the "water when dry" method. During the hot summer, in addition to shading and sun protection, regularly sprinkle water around the plant to cool down.
Alright, the above are the four key points for maintaining rhododendrons. If you master these points, your plants will grow vigorously and produce beautiful blooms when they reach the flowering period.
The above is a detailed explanation of how to grow rhododendrons and related maintenance knowledge, for your reference and suggestions!