How to plant rhododendron
Main text core guide: Learn about the planting of rhododendron and the cultivation techniques and management of rhododendron flowers, let's understand together.
There are many types of rhododendron with beautiful and colorful flowers, which are highly ornamental. According to flower color, blooming period, and shape, rhododendron can be divided into many species. Its leaves are ovate or elliptical, 1.5-5 cm long and 0.5-3 cm wide, with fine teeth on the edges, dark green on the top and densely covered with brown pubescent hair on the bottom.
The flowers cluster at the top of the branches, with a broad funnel-shaped corolla, pink or dark red, 3 cm long and 2 cm wide, blooming from April to May, and fruiting from June to August.
Growth environment of rhododendron
Rhododendron prefers shade and is not cold or drought resistant. The optimal growth temperature is between 12°C and 25°C, suitable for a cool, humid, and well-ventilated environment. High temperatures will lead to slow growth of new leaves. Additionally, rhododendron prefers acidic soil.
Cultivation methods of rhododendron
Rhododendron cultivation commonly uses methods such as seeding, cutting, and grafting, and can also be propagated by layering and dividing plants.
Cultivation precautions
1. Light and temperature: Based on the growth environment of rhododendron, during cultivation, it is important to maintain the ventilation of the soil and choose well-drained acidic soil. Provide moderate sunlight and avoid direct strong sunlight.
Too much light can burn the tender leaves, causing the edges of new and old leaves to turn brown, and in severe cases, lead to plant death. The optimal growth temperature is 15-25°C, so in winter, it should be moved indoors to a sunny location for warmth. In summer, shading is necessary.
2. Fertilization and water management: Rhododendron prefers moisture, so the soil should be kept moist, with watering once a week in winter. Water only when necessary and water thoroughly, preferably with acidic water. Rhododendron requires more water during the growing season, and watering can be reduced before and after flowering. Additionally, rhododendron prefers light fertilization, with fertilization adjusted according to different growth stages. Fertilize once a week during the growing season, avoid fertilizing in summer, and apply 20%-30% phosphorus-containing liquid fertilizer every 10 days from September to promote bud growth. After October, growth basically stops, and no more fertilization is needed. Fertilizers should be acidic or slightly alkaline, choosing fertilizers with moderate fertility, long-lasting effects, and high nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium content.
3. Pest control: Strengthen cultivation management and pay attention to the growth of rhododendron. If pest infestation is detected, it should be treated promptly. Common diseases and pests of rhododendron include root rot, red spider mites, and gray mold.
Rhododendron root rot: Promptly dispose of dead plants and potting soil. Increase light exposure in the morning and evening, apply potassium fertilizer, and enhance the disease resistance of rhododendron.
Rhododendron red spider mite: Use 10%天皇星 emulsion 1000 times liquid or 7051 insecticide (Miechongling) 3000 times liquid for spraying.
Rhododendron gray mold: Use 50% chloronitrite 1000 times liquid or 50% carbendazim wettable powder 1000 times liquid for spraying to control the disease.
The above introduces how to plant rhododendron, rhododendron cultivation techniques, and management, hoping to be helpful to green plant enthusiasts!