Rose dendron planting and care. Rhododendron: beneficial properties of the plant, growing technology and care

The rhododendron plant comes from the Heather family. Translated, the name rhododendron means rose tree. This is a fairly well-known plant for growing at home, and the common people call it indoor rhododendron.


General information

The plant is distributed in the Northern Hemisphere. Less common in Japan, Asia, North America. In the Ukrainian expanses, this plant grows in the subalpine zone, and only Carpathian rhododendron. But only there they call it in their own way “Chervona Ruta”. This species is listed in the Red Book.

The rhododendron flower grows in nature both in groups and as single individuals. It is found on mountain slopes in swampy areas and in the tundra.

Rhododendron is an almost evergreen shrubby plant or trees. The height of miniature species ranges from 10 cm to one meter, and there are exceptions whose height is about 30 meters.

The leaves of the plant vary in shape and size. The foliage is arranged in a spiral shape. The leaf shape is an oblong oval with slight pubescence. Inflorescences are presented in racemes or corymbs, sometimes singly. The corolla has a sunny or pinkish tint.

The fruits are formed in the form of capsules with many seeds. There are about 1,300 plant species in the natural environment.

Varieties and types

This is a deciduous species, reaching a height of up to 2 meters. The shoots of the plant are directed upward. The ellipse-shaped foliage is about 4 cm in length and up to 1.5 cm in width. The inflorescences are single, soft purple in color. Flowering begins in mid-summer, after the leaves have fully appeared.

Accelerating bush. The height of this species is about 3 meters. The foliage is oblong, about 12 cm long. The inflorescences are represented by up to 10 flowers in racemes and have a pleasant aroma. Flowering occurs at the end of spring.

This is an evergreen bush with many leaves, reaching a height of 4 meters, but to a greater extent the width of the bush exceeds its height. The shape of the leaf is in the form of an ellipse, about 15 cm long. There are up to 20 flowers in the racemes. The corolla of the flower is purple. Flowering begins at the end of spring.

The accelerating species is about two meters in height. The leaves are shaped like maple leaves and are found at the ends of the stems. The inflorescences are pale pink with splashes, the flower diameter is about 10 cm.

This is a bush, about 2 meters tall. The shape of the bush is decomposed. The foliage is elongated, about 10 cm in length, slightly pubescent. IN autumn period has a yellowish-red tint. The inflorescences are scarlet, sunny in color, about 8 cm in diameter with a pleasant aroma. Flowering begins at last month spring. Flowering duration is more than a month.

Quite common. Due to the abundance of flowers, leaves are almost completely invisible. Height is about one meter. Inflorescences are bell-shaped. The color of the flower is scarlet, yellow or pink.

Is not large sizes bush up to half a meter in height. Adults of the plant have a dark gray bark tint. The leaves of the species are elongated with a rounded end. Young individuals have an individually pleasant, but more pungent aroma.

The inflorescences of the species have a light pink tint and have no aroma. There are about 15 flowers in the racemes. Flowering lasts throughout the summer.

Height is about 1 meter 20 centimeters. With a brown tint to the bark. The shoots are more accelerating in nature.

The foliage is oblong and oval shaped. WITH inside the leaf is covered with hairs. The flowers are clustered in corymbs of about 8 pieces. The diameter of the inflorescence is about 3 cm. The shade of the petals is light or pale pink. It blooms in spring and is a good honey plant. The hybrid species is quite demanding in care and planting.

Not a large shrub. The shoots are spreading. The foliage is alternate, about 8 cm long, the surface of the leaf is olive in color, and the inside is a less clear shade. Inflorescences on high stalks, about 5 flowers on one. After flowering, a fruit capsule with small seeds is formed. The aroma of the plant is similar to that of fresh strawberries.

Not volumetric tree shaped like a ball. The foliage is narrowed, dense, glossy on the outside. The leaves have a dark olive hue on the outside, and on the inside they have a chocolate hue with small fibers.

The inflorescences are about 7 cm in diameter. When they begin flowering, the petals have a pale pink tint, and by the end they acquire a rich white color. Flowering begins towards the end of spring.

Has a spherical bush. Hybrid plant from rhododendron katevsbinsky. The species was developed in 1851. The height of the plant is about 3 meters. The foliage is medium sized and elliptical in shape. Inflorescences with a pink tint and purple spots. Flowering begins in late spring and lasts about a month.

Rhododendron planting and care

The planting location should be slightly shaded. Preferably the northern part. It is preferable to plant rhododendron in early spring, in the first months of spring.

Rhododendron is transplanted in the fall before the onset of frost. Also, replanting can be done at any necessary period, only a month before flowering, or after the plant has flowered in a few weeks.

Soil for rhododendrons

The soil for planting should be light, loose with a good drainage layer. It is important that the soil is acidic and with sufficient fertilizer. High-moor peat is suitable and loamy soil in a ratio of 8:3.

It is necessary to avoid stagnation of moisture, otherwise the plant will die. The plant must be planted in a prepared hole about half a meter in diameter and the same depth.

To acidify the soil for rhododendrons. It is necessary to add processed sawdust from coniferous trees or rotted coniferous needles to the soil.

At home, you can check whether your soil needs acidification. To do this, you will need to pour boiling water over currant or cherry leaves, and when the water has cooled, throw in a little earth. If the water changes color to blue, then the soil needs acidification, if it is red, then it is normal. And if the color changes to green, then the soil is neutral.

Caring for the plant does not require special skills, you just need to loosen the soil and remove weeds in time.

Watering rhododendrons

It is preferable to provide moderate moisture to the plant. Water must be settled or, if possible, rainwater. The soil should be moist to 30 cm deep. You can determine whether watering is necessary by appearance foliage, if they become faded and dull, then moisturizing is necessary.

Rhododendron loves fairly humidified air, about 65%, so it requires frequent spraying of the leaves.

Fertilizer for rhododendrons

The plant should be fertilized starting from early spring until the end of flowering in mid-summer. Fertilize with cow liquid manure along with water in a ratio of 1:15. Before fertilizing, the plant must be watered.

The most practical fertilization option is mineral and organic complex fertilizers in early spring. During flowering with cow dung.

Autumn fertilizers for rhododendrons are necessary after flowering. Phosphorus and potassium fertilizers are suitable for this.

Pruning rhododendrons

The plant needs to be trimmed if necessary to create the desired shape. Pruning is done in early spring, before the start of the growing season. Dry shoots are cut off and old branches, about 4 cm thick, are rejuvenated.

Plants that have not overwintered well or are outdated must be completely rejuvenated by cutting off all shoots at a height of about 30 cm from the ground.

Sheltering rhododendrons for the winter

It is necessary to cover the plant if you have hot and frosty winters. To do this, the bush is covered with dry leaves and sawdust. And the shoots themselves are covered with spruce branches and insulated with burlap.

Insulation must be removed after the snow melts in early spring.

Propagation of rhododendrons by cuttings

To do this, cut cuttings from adult large plants about 8 cm long. Place them in a growth stimulator for half a day. And then they are planted in a mixture of peat and sand in a ratio of 3:1, then covered with cellophane, making a greenhouse.

Periodically opening for watering and ventilation. Rooting occurs up to 4.5 months. After rooting, the cuttings are transplanted into a mixture of peat and pine needles.

Reproduction of rhododendrons by layering

To do this, in the spring, dig a young shoot into a small hole about 16 cm deep and sprinkle it with soil, water it during the summer, and when rooting occurs, replant it separately.

Rhododendron propagation by seeds

The seeds must be sown in a container with prepared peat to a depth of about a centimeter. Cover the container with glass and periodically ventilate and moisten the soil. The temperature required for seed germination is about 15 degrees.

  • Rhododendron does not bloom The reasons may be different, the soil may not be suitable, there is little light, a lot of nitrogen fertilization, leading to the growth of branches and leaves, but flowering does not begin.
  • Rhododendron leaves turn yellow from excessive moisture in the root system, it is necessary to monitor moderate moisture.
  • Rhododendron doesn't grow due to lack of fertilizers, not acidic soil or too much sun shining, and the plant suffers from the heat.
  • Rhododendron sheds its leaves The reason for this may be dry soil, unsuitable land for planting, or your plant is being attacked by pests.
  • The rhododendron withers and the leaves turn brown The reasons are most likely dry air and insufficient spraying. There may also be excessive hits of direct sun rays.
  • Rhododendron leaves are pale green with insufficient lighting, the leaves become pale and faded. The second reason is the lack of watering of the plant.
  • The buds of the rhododendron did not open the reason is increased air temperature, optimal temperature for a plant indoors it is about 16, and outside it is within 22 degrees.
  • Rhododendron leaves have turned black The cause was the disease chlorosis, which manifests itself when there is a lack of acidity in the soil.
  • When pests appear on the plant , it is necessary to treat the rhododendron bush with an appropriate insecticide.
  • ECOgardener

    Everything about garden rhododendron: planting, care, use in garden design

    This one is attractive beautiful flowering shrub literally every flower lover wants to have. Garden rhododendron fascinates with the variety of its species and varieties, as well as its flowers, which are painted in different shades. Let's figure out what requirements for planting and care the garden rhododendron has, and also go over the types and varieties (with photos).

    Garden rhododendron: planting and care, photos of popular species and varieties

    Rhododendron (Rhododendron) - genus beautiful flowering plants family Heather (Ericaceae). Some of them are tropical sissies ( indoor azaleas), others withstand harsh climates well. About 18 species are found in Russia, and we have made a selection for growing in gardens frost-resistant rhododendrons.

    Rhododendron: description of some species

    This ornamental culture are shrubs or small trees that can be evergreen, deciduous or semi-evergreen. The bare or slightly pubescent branches are covered with harsh and dense leaves.

    Enough large flowers, resembling bells, are located one at a time or in inflorescences such as a shield or umbrella. The color of the inflorescences can vary from snow-white and yellow to brownish-purple. Below are frost-resistant types of garden rhododendrons that are used in landscaping and landscape design.

    Rhododendron yellow

    Deciduous species. IN natural conditions it can be seen in the North Caucasus. Cultivated since 1972. The height of this spreading beautiful shrub varies from 2 to 3 meters. Dense elongated leaves, painted in a bright green shade, become dark red or orange-red with the onset of autumn.

    Very yellow fragrant flowers bloom at the tops of shoots in multi-flowered inflorescences such as a shield or umbrella. Flowering occurs from April to May, when the leaves bloom. It lasts from three to four weeks.

    This species has a large number of varieties, the flowers of which are painted in a variety of attractive shades. Hybrids with double inflorescences have also been created.

    Yellow rhododendron reproduces both by seeds and by layering. It has its most spectacular appearance during lush spring flowering and in autumn, when the leaves change color.

    Rhododendron ponticus

    Under natural conditions it grows on the Caucasian coast of the Black Sea. Beautiful elongated, harsh leaves with a glossy surface, painted in a thick green color. They are located at the ends of the branches of this evergreen shrub in the form of cuffs.

    Purple-pink large flowers with spectacular yellow dots can reach almost 5 cm in width. They bloom in corymb-type inflorescences consisting of large quantity flowers. During the flowering period, which lasts almost 4 weeks, you simply cannot take your eyes off this original shrub.

    This species reproduces by seeds, cuttings and layering, but most in a simple way Propagation using leaf cuttings is considered.

    Rhododendron Ledeboura (maral)

    In nature it grows among piles of stones and screes. It can be found in the Sayan Mountains and Altai. The crown of this semi-evergreen shrub (about 2 m in height) is formed by numerous thin branches. Small oval leaves mainly overwinter on shoots.

    Attractive pinkish-lilac flowers with open petals (about 5 cm wide) are located almost at the very tops of the branches, one or several pieces together. The annual abundant flowering occurs in the month of May. At this time, the bushes are almost completely covered with flowers.

    This fast-growing species of rhododendron tolerates transplantation well when young. It can be easily propagated using seeds.

    Caucasian rhododendron

    On the territory of our country, only high in the Caucasus mountains can you find this type of garden rhododendron. On the northern sides of the mountains and on the slopes of the bushes, continuous thickets quite often form. Caucasian rhododendron bushes about one and a half meters high are formed by thin shoots, some of which lie on the ground.

    The leathery leaves, colored deep green, have an oblong shape. Creamy-white funnel-shaped flowers with a greenish tint bloom in inflorescences consisting of 5-7 pieces. Towards the end of flowering they acquire a pinkish color.

    Rhododendron daurica (Ledum)

    Many forms of this species are difficult to distinguish from Rhododendron Ledebourg. It grows in Asia east from Altai to Korea, the Far East and Japan. In Siberia, on crushed stone soils, there are entire thickets spreading in a pink carpet. The shoots are densely branched, directed upward, the bush reaches 0.7-2 m.

    The leathery leaves are first green and then turn brown. By autumn they curl and fall off. The corolla of the flower is lilac-pink or white, flower buds are located at the ends of the shoots. Shade-tolerant and super frost-resistant: tolerates frosts down to -45 °C well. Propagated by root suckers and seeds.

    Rhododendron acuminate

    Under natural conditions it grows in the Far East. The bush, whose height varies from one to three meters, is formed by a large number of branched shoots.

    The green oval leaves have a glossy upper surface. Pinkish-lilac flowers (3 to 4 cm wide), resembling a wide bell, are located on the branches one or several pieces. Abundant flowering, lasting almost three weeks, occurs during the period of leaf appearance (April). Sometimes the acuminate rhododendron blooms a second time in August, but this flowering is much weaker than the first.

    Selection

    Of course, the specifics of flowering give impetus to the development of more and more new forms; many hybrids have been obtained that are superior to natural species in their decorative qualities:

    rhododendron hybrid Nova Zembla
    rhododendron hybrid Roseum Elegans

    rhododendron hybrid Libretto
    rhododendron hybrid Midnight Mystic

    Place and time for planting, soil requirements

    The best place for planting rhododendrons are slightly shaded areas located under the crowns tall trees where there is no excess moisture and high level groundwater. But it is worth remembering that some varieties and varieties of deciduous rhododendrons are well planted in well-lit areas, but the soil must be moist. Sufficient quantity light allows the plant to show its spectacular flowering in full beauty.

    But it is advisable to plant evergreen rhododendrons so that they receive some shade during very hot daytime hours. The best neighbors for this shrub are various coniferous plants.

    Rhododendrons should not be planted next to tree crops that have a shallow root system. These are the following trees and shrubs:

    It is also undesirable to choose a place for planting next to maples and lindens, which quickly entwine the root system of rhododendrons and take all the moisture.

    It is also worth noting that rhododendrons grow well along walls facing north. Most often, in such places, the bushes are protected from strong winds and are not exposed to direct sunlight at noon, but are only illuminated in the morning and afternoon.

    The place for planting this ornamental shrub should be protected from powerful air currents, not to mention winds, as they can quickly dry out the leaves of the plants. Evergreen species are especially damaged in winter.

    Soil for rhododendrons

    One of the main factors influencing the growth and development of bushes is the composition and acidity of the soil. The optimal pH level is between 4.5 and 5.5 units. Also, the soil should be loose, breathable and sufficiently moist.

    The soil pH level can be determined quite accurately by different cultures that grow on it. Plants that are indicators of acidic soils are field mint, horse sorrel, popovnik, willowweed and creeping buttercup. On lands with a neutral and slightly acidic pH, nettles, field bindweed, quinoa and coltsfoot are most often found.

    If the soil where the rhododendrons will grow is of unsuitable quality, then it needs to be replaced with a mixture that consists of high-moor peat with sand. Moreover, they take two parts of peat, and only one part of sand.

    In the fall, the following organic fertilizers must be added to soil poor in nutrients: rotted manure, straw, fallen pine needles and leaves, sphagnum peat and hay. And next year in spring or summer you can already plant rhododendrons.

    Rhododendron: planting and care in open ground

    The best time to plant is spring, before the growing season begins, or when the buds just burst. This period falls in the second half of April – the first ten days of May. Planting can also be done in September, but for this the seedlings must be grown in open ground, thereby preparing them for wintering. If there is an urgent need, rhododendron bushes can be planted at any time, but this should not be done during flowering and immediately after it, since the shoots begin to grow intensively. Container plants can be planted throughout the warm season.

    A hole for planting is dug about 40 cm deep, and the length and width should be from 50 to 60 cm. If the soil is very damp, contains a lot of clay or lime, then a drainage layer (about 10 cm) consisting of crushed stone or gravel. Where there is a lot of sand in the ground, a layer of clay is poured at the bottom of the hole to retain moisture.

    To fill a hole, a mixture is usually prepared from peat (high peat), sand, and completely decomposed manure (cow). If peat is not at hand, then you can use a combination of heather and turf land, as well as coarse sand. In this case, take 2 parts of turf soil, 2 parts of heather land, and one part of sand.

    When planting, the bush is placed so that the place where the roots begin at the stem is slightly above the surface of the soil, since it will then settle and be at ground level. After planting, make a hole around the plant and water it with plenty of water. It is advisable to mulch the ground near the bush with rotted manure, leaf humus, peat or tree bark.

    For planting, container plants are usually chosen at the age of three years. Bushes aged one to two years or 4 years and older are also used. Before planting, rhododendrons are watered. In this case, the plants tolerate transplantation better. If the earthen ball with roots has dried out, then it is placed in water so that it is completely saturated.

    If the purchased bushes have flower buds, then before planting most they need to be removed so that unrooted rhododendrons do not spend all their energy and nutrients on flowering. Plants can be replanted at any age, but this work is carried out only in spring or autumn time. At the same time, it is worth knowing that large evergreen varieties after transplantation must be protected from strong sunlight during some time.

    Rhododendrons in landscape design (photo compositions)

    Rhododendrons look amazing when they form groups, especially if they are planted along the edges of the lawn or near houses. They also go great with pools, ponds, and look beautiful near garden decorative fountains. After all, plants are not only moisture-loving, they benefit from humidified air.

    Thanks to the variety of species, you can make a magnificent array by combining plants in height:

    • plant the tallest ones in the center, and the lower ones at the edges. This will then create a comprehensive review group;
    • plant tall ones in the background and low ones in the foreground. This will create a composition in the form of a lectern with a one-way view.

    Garden rhododendron looks bright and festive against a dark background of conifers. In addition, the dense crown of conifers will protect these sissies from cold, drying winds and the spring sun.

    Joint planting of rhododendrons with coniferous trees makes care easier - coniferous litter will naturally acidify the soil without our participation. In addition, rhododendrons are constant participants in Japanese-style gardens, as well as beautiful accents on heaths.

    According to our experience, for recent years 10 many summer residents were disappointed in this amazing flower - they ran into non-winter-hardy hybrids. But the market is becoming more intelligent, and more and more frost-resistant varieties are appearing. So if you choose a place on your site with good drainage, then feel free to plant a garden rhododendron; planting and caring for it, although it requires maintaining moisture and acidity of the soil, these requirements can be easily dealt with if desired, right?

    11.11.2017 4 252

    Rhododendron, planting and care in open ground - how to please wild rosemary?

    The incredible rhododendron, planting and caring for it in the open ground are quite labor-intensive procedures, will delight the gardener with beautiful and healthy growth if you know how to grow it from cuttings, how to fertilize it in June and other months, which mineral fertilizers are best suited, what are the names of the most frost-resistant varieties, as well as many other features of cultivating this amazing shrub...

    Cuttings of rhododendrons in summer and other methods of propagation

    Rose tree (rhodon - rose, dendron - tree) is a rhododendron, planting and caring for it in the open ground is not difficult, but requires care and attention. Rhododendron can be creeping and tall, evergreen and deciduous, and it can be propagated different ways– cuttings and layering, grafting, dividing the bush, seeds.

    Seeds rhododendron is sown at the end of February - beginning of March in boxes on the surface of the soil, without burying, and a greenhouse made of film or glass is placed on top. The emerging sprouts are hardened off and transplanted into outdoor beds; rhododendron seedlings are well covered for the winter, and in the spring they are transplanted to a permanent place.

    Cuttings rhododendrons in the summer occurs with semi-lignified tops of the bush - the apical bud and leaves are removed from the cut shoot, leaving only the top two, then the cuttings are soaked in a solution that stimulates root growth, and rooted in acidic soil consisting of peat, sand, pine needles.

    By layering It is easiest to propagate rhododendron - at the beginning of summer, a branch of an adult bush is bent to the ground, pinned and sprinkled with soil in the middle part, having previously made a cut, the top is lifted and secured, and the area pressed to the ground is regularly watered. Already in the fall, you can cut off the mother branch and replant the resulting daughter rhododendron bush.

    rhododendron seeds - pictured

    Many people wonder whether it is possible to divide a rhododendron bush - yes, but this is a rather traumatic procedure for the plant. After digging and dividing mother bush the resulting new plants are sent for growing until they become stronger, and the old bush will also require special care. Ledum specimens with a very weak root system are strengthened in a greenhouse.

    Rhododendron - planting and care in open ground

    You should know if you decide to grow rhododendron - planting and caring for this plant in open ground has its own characteristics. So, it is better to plant and replant rhododendron in the spring - in April-May, or in the fall, in September-November. Rose tree loves light fertile soil with high acidity (pH 4-5), with the addition of peat and soil from a coniferous forest, and also prefers partial shade, the northern side of the site, however, in strong shade it blooms poorly, and in the open sun regular spraying of the bush is necessary.

    To plant rhododendron, dig a hole at least 40 cm deep - its diameter should be twice the diameter of the roots; peat mixed with coniferous soil, rotted manure, and loam is poured into the hole.

    The root system of rhododendron is fibrous and superficial, so the soil under the bush is loosened with caution. The flower does not tolerate drought well, so rhododendron is watered abundantly - the ground should be moistened by 20 cm, and before watering, the water is left to settle so that it becomes soft, or rain moisture is collected. It is useful to acidify the water by adding a little peat to it the day before watering. Rhododendron roots cannot be overwatered, they can rot, so even in hot weather there is no need to water more often than usual, but spraying the foliage is a necessary procedure.

    The natural shape of the bushes does not require such a procedure as pruning rhododendron - you just need to remove dried branches, rejuvenate the bush from time to time and trim it to the desired height. Pruning is carried out in early March, when the rhododendron has not yet woken up, removing no more than a quarter of the bush, while sections of branches 2-4 cm thick are treated with garden pitch.

    Rhododendrons bloom profusely every year, and in the intervals they “rest”, and in order to stimulate flowering in a “lean year”, faded inflorescences are immediately removed - then the plant directs nutrients to laying future flowers.

    The varieties Vazeya, Japanese, Daurian, yellow bloom in about 5 years, and in Katevbinsky, Smirnov, sticky, Pontian, marigold, stiff-haired and some other varieties of rhododendron, flowering begins at 6–8 years.

    At the beginning of spring, mineral fertilizers are needed for rhododendrons - for this, take two parts of ammonium sulfate, one part each of superphosphate and potassium, and apply at the rate of 80 g per square meter, and after flowering, in June, the next feeding is carried out, but the concentration of fertilizers is halved.

    Rhododendron is fed with phosphorus and potassium in equal proportions in mid-summer at a rate of 40 g/m², this is done to stimulate flowering. flower buds and increasing winter hardiness, but the abundance of nitrogen fertilizers during this period is unacceptable, as it leads to rapid development of shoots and interferes with the formation of flower buds.

    For the winter, rhododendron bushes are mulched with peat, and arched frames are installed above them, which are covered with agrofibre and polyethylene, which are completely closed with the onset of frost.

    Most common fungal diseases rhododendron – chlorosis, rust, spotting, gray rot. Spotting and rust on rhododendron leaves are combated with the help of copper-containing preparations, and you can get rid of chlorosis by adding iron chelate to the water when watering or by independently dissolving a little citric acid in the water along with iron sulfate.

    Pests - bedbugs, weevils - that attack rhododendron are dealt with using special fungicides and insecticides, for example, Thiram.

    Rhododendron - winter-hardy varieties and their features

    This alpine shrub is rhododendron, winter-hardy varieties which is popular throughout Russia, tolerates the cold well, but under natural conditions it winters under deep snow.

    For example, rhododendron ferrugineum - rusty rhododendron - requires shelter in those regions where there is not enough snow, and pink rhododendron amoena winters well in temperate climate middle zone, but in especially frosty winters it also needs insulation. Rhododendron mix is ​​frost-resistant. Cold resistance is inherent in evergreen varieties - Adams rhododendron, Daurian, Caucasian.

    rusty rhododendron - pictured

    Not only in Siberia, but also in the temperate climate of the middle zone, it is more reliable to grow winter-hardy varieties of rhododendron, since frost-resistant plants survive temperatures of -30ﹾC even without shelter. The most popular cold-resistant varieties of rhododendron with brightly colored inflorescences are:

    • Grandiflorum – purple;
    • Nova Zembla – bright red;
    • Caractacus - dark pink ruffled flowers;
    • Album Novum – pink;
    • Pohjola's daughter - purple;
    • Elite – contrasting colors, tolerates frost down to -35C
    • The Hague - pink;
    • The University of Helsinki is the most frost-resistant, wintering at -40C.

    Your site is beautiful if it is decorated with rhododendron, planting and caring for it in the open ground may require additional effort, but it will be rewarded with delightful flowering.

    (18 ratings, average: 4,08 out of 5)

    garden plant rhododendron (in Latin Rhododendron) belongs to the genus of semi-deciduous trees. This genus also includes deciduous, evergreen trees and shrubs of the genus Heather plants. By various information biologists, this genus includes from 85 thousand to 300 thousand plants, including indoor azalea plants, which gardeners call indoor rhododendron.

    Plant characteristics

    The word “Rhododendron” itself comes from two words: rhodon - “rose” and dendron - “tree”. The most common names are “Tree with Roses” or “Rose Tree”. Many florists notice that the plant is very similar to a rose.

    Rhododendrons can be found in many countries, but they are mainly widespread in the countries of the Northern Hemisphere: Southeast Asia, North America, Japan, South China. These plants can be grown on coastal areas oceans, seas and rivers, in the partial shade of forests, on the slopes of the northern mountains.

    Some rhododendrons can grow up to 35 cm, while other plants occur as creeping shrubs. Rhododendron flowers vary in shape, color and size. In nature you can find the tiniest sizes, and the diameter of large flowers can reach 25 cm. Currently, garden rhododendron has approximately 3 thousand varieties and species.

    Thanks to its decorative leaves, the rhododendron flower is popular all over the world. The main advantage of the plant is its magnificent flowers of red, lilac, violet, pink and white. They allow you to create exquisite and superbly beautiful bouquets.

    Depending on the type and variety, the shape of the flower can be tubular, ring-shaped, or wheel-shaped. Some varieties have a pleasant aroma.

    The fruits are a five-leaf, multi-seeded capsule with small seeds up to 3 mm in size. The plant has a shallow, compact root system consisting of a large number of fibrous roots. Thanks to this root system, replanting does not cause much difficulty or hassle and is quite easy. Rhododendron is an excellent spring honey plant. Growing a plant is a simple process, but certain requirements must be met.

    Common varieties

    • Rhododendron Kamchatka
    • Rhododendron Daurian

    Rhododendron Kamchatka grows in the Khabarovsk region, it can also be found on the banks Sea of ​​Okhotsk, in Japan, Alaska and Chukotka. The plant is a branched deciduous shrub with rough branches. Early shoots are covered with glandular hairs. Grows in height, growth is slow. The variety prefers cold, wet and open slopes with slightly acidic soils. Since the variety is winter-hardy, planting is carried out in early spring and early autumn. Requires regular watering and feeding.

    The shape of the leaf crowns is large, sessile. The leaves are dark green. The flowers are red or pink, odorless, with a diameter of 2 to 5 cm. The seeds are in a yellow seed capsule, propagated by cuttings.

    Rhododendron kauri grows in Eastern Siberia, Northern China, Korea and Mongolia. Inhabits rocky slopes and coniferous forests. Represents evergreen shrub. The leaves are small, light green in color. The flowers are purple-pink up to 5 cm in diameter. Flowering lasts 3-4 weeks. The variety is winter-hardy and propagated by cuttings.

    Found in the mountains of Tibet and the Far East. Prefers rocky slopes and mountain forests. The shrub is low, about half a meter in length. The shoots are glandular. The leaves are dark green. Pink flowers. This plant is listed by biologists in the Red Book of the Buryat District.

    Gallery: rhododendrons (25 photos)






















    Growing conditions

    In the Russian climate, only winter-hardy varieties are grown in gardens. Planting in the ground is carried out in the spring.(from early April to late May) and autumn (from early September to late November). If necessary, planting can be done at any time, but not during the flowering period. The plant can be replanted after 1-2 weeks of flowering. Planting is best done on the north side of the building, in the shade.

    The plant is grown in loose, well-drained soil with acid and humus. If on your personal plot groundwater leak at a depth of more than 2 m, then you should raise the bed and only then plant.

    Grows well next to plants such as pine, larch, oak, since in these plants the root system grows far in depth. And other trees - maple, poplar, elm, willow, alder, chestnut and linden - will deprive the roots of the plant of adequate nutrition, since they have a superficial root system, the same as that of rhododendron. If it is impossible to avoid such a neighborhood of trees, then it is necessary to dig slate, polyethylene or roofing felt into the ground. This will protect the plant's root system. Ideal neighbors for rhododendron are pears, apple trees and plums.

    Please note that if you are going to plant rhododendron in the Urals, then choose winter-hardy varieties that can withstand air temperature drops of up to 30 degrees without outside covering of the plant. For example, “Nova Zembla”, “Katevbinsky Grandiflorum”, “Roseum Elegance”.

    Planting in open ground

    A well-mixed mixture of 3 buckets of clay and 8 buckets of peat is poured into a planting hole with a diameter of about 55 cm and a depth of about 35 cm. The mixture is compacted to the bottom of the hole, then a hole is dug. The hole must correspond to the size of the plant's root system. Before planting, plant seedlings are immersed in water and kept there until air bubbles are released. Then the landing takes place.

    After planting, the bush is watered abundantly, and the ground is sprinkled with peat or pine needles. If there are buds on the plant, then it is necessary to remove them so that all forces are directed to the development of the horse system, and not to flowering. If the area is spacious, then it is necessary to tie the plant to a stake to protect it from the wind. Once the root system has strengthened, the peg can be removed.

    Flower care

    Caring for rhododendron can be done using the usual procedures: weeding, fertilizing, watering, spraying, pest control and bush formation. It is forbidden to dig and loosen very close to the surface of the root system. Weeding must be done manually, without special tools.

    During the period of flowering and bud formation, rhododendron needs humid air. During this period, you must follow the watering rules: the water must be rain or soft. The water is also softened by adding several handfuls of peat to it the day before watering the plant. The frequency of watering is determined by the condition of the leaves; they should be matte and not have a yellow tint.

    The soil should be wet to a depth of 35 cm, however, there is no need to flood the root system, since excess moisture will cause the leaves to curl. Do not increase the amount of water with each watering. In extreme heat, the plant can be additionally sprayed with water.

    Rhododendron propagation

    Generative method

    Reproduction occurs by seeds. They are sown in a small bowl with moistened peat or heather soil with sand in a ratio of 1:3. Next, the seeds are covered with sand, covered with a piece of glass and placed in a bright room for germination.

    Subsequently, the room is ventilated and formations are removed from the glass. After about a month, the first shoots of the plant appear. When the first leaves appear, the plant must be planted more freely, deepening the seeds into the ground so that the root system is formed. The first year the plants are kept in a greenhouse, and the next year they can be planted in the ground, in beds with soil, sand and peat. Seedlings grow slowly, and flowers appear only in 5-7 years.

    Vegetative way

    The plant is propagated by dividing the bush, cuttings, layering.

    Propagation by cuttings is also a complex procedure. From the shoots it is necessary to cut cuttings 4-7 cm long. Next, remove from the cuttings lower leaves, and their sections are kept for 11-13 hours in heteroaxin, a root system growth stimulator. Then the treated cuttings are placed in the ground with sand and peat and covered with film. Cuttings take root hard and long, within 6 months. They are raised in wooden boxes with soil containing pine needles and peat. In winter, the boxes with the plant should be stored in a cool room, and in the spring they should be taken out into the garden, dug directly into the ground and grown for about two years. Then they are transplanted to a permanent place.

    Bush pruning

    Many gardeners recommend not focusing their attention on pruning rhododendron, because During the process of growth, the plant acquires correct form . Only tall bushes and frozen shoots need to be trimmed.

    In an adult bush, shoots are pruned in early spring. Garden varnish is applied to sections of thick branches. A month later, when buds appear on the shoots, the plant begins a period of renewal. Very frozen and old bushes must be pruned at a height of 30 cm from the ground surface. First, in the first half of the year, one part of the bush is cut, and in the second half of the year, the other.

    Feeding rules

    First of all, you need to fertilize those plants that you planted recently. The first feeding is done at the beginning of spring, and the second - at the end of the first half of summer, after flowering has ended, and when new shoots are growing. Ideal for rhododendrons feeding from horn meal and cow manure. Cow dung must be filled with water in a ratio of 1:15 and allowed to brew for 2-3 days. After this you can fertilize.

    Before fertilizing, the plant must be watered. Do not forget that rhododendron grows in acidic soils, so it is advisable to use fertilizers containing minerals, superphosphate, ammonium and potassium phosphate. These fertilizers must be dissolved in weak proportions, for example 1.1:1000, and if the solution contains potassium substances, then it should be even weaker. It is optimal to fertilize in early spring and mid-summer.

    Diseases and pests

    Rhododendron has its own pests - slugs, snails, rhododendron flies, mites, weevils, scale insects, mealyworms and bedbugs. Slugs and snails can be collected by hand and then treated with a solution of Thiram or a fungicide. bedbugs, spider mites, weevils are destroyed by diazinon. If a plant is affected by a weevil, then its leaves, stems, as well as upper layer soils are treated with insecticide. Other insects are exterminated by karbofos. Remember that when using this product you must follow the instructions.

    Rhododendron is most often affected fungal diseases. The first signs of plant disease may be spots or rust on the leaves. Fungal diseases arise as a result of poor care of the root system. In this case, the plant must be treated with a solution of copper sulfate and diseased leaves must be removed. In addition, in early spring and late autumn, for prevention, you need to spray the plant with Bordeaux mixture.

    Rhododendrons in the Moscow region

    Growing rhododendron in the Moscow region is not very different from the usual process of planting and caring for it in other areas. Here the basic requirements must be met:

    • Humus and acidic soil without lime, ash and other substances.
    • Rhodendron must be protected with a net from the penetration of sunlight when planted in early spring.
    • Balanced and deep watering.

    In early autumn, during the growth period of rhododendron, when rainy weather sets in, it is necessary to spray the bush with potassium monophosphate or a sulfate solution from a spray bottle. This procedure will prevent woodiness of the shoots and stimulate the formation of buds for the next year. After spraying, stop watering. In winter, you can cover the plant in a greenhouse or place it in a warm and dry room.

    Our grandmothers, growing garden strawberries, or strawberries, as we used to call them, did not particularly worry about mulching. But today this agricultural technique has become fundamental in achieving High Quality berries and reducing crop losses. Some might say it's a hassle. But practice shows that labor costs in this case pay off handsomely. In this article we invite you to get acquainted with the nine the best materials for mulching garden strawberries.

    Succulents are very diverse. Despite the fact that “little ones” have always been considered more fashionable, the range of succulents with which you can decorate modern interior, it’s worth taking a closer look. After all, colors, sizes, patterns, degree of prickliness, impact on the interior are just a few of the parameters by which you can choose them. In this article we will tell you about the five most fashionable succulents that amazingly transform modern interiors.

    The Egyptians used mint as early as 1.5 thousand years BC. It has a strong aroma due to the high content of various essential oils, which are highly volatile. Today, mint is used in medicine, perfumery, cosmetology, winemaking, cooking, ornamental gardening, and the confectionery industry. In this article we will look at the most interesting varieties of mint, and also talk about the features of growing this plant in open ground.

    People began growing crocuses 500 years before our era. Although the presence of these flowers in the garden is fleeting, we always look forward to the return of the harbingers of spring to next year. Crocuses are one of the earliest primroses, whose flowering begins as soon as the snow melts. However, flowering times may vary depending on the species and varieties. This article is dedicated to the earliest varieties of crocuses, which bloom in late March and early April.

    Cabbage soup made from early young cabbage in beef broth is hearty, aromatic and easy to prepare. In this recipe you will learn how to cook delicious beef broth and cook light cabbage soup with this broth. Early cabbage cooks quickly, so it is placed in the pan at the same time as other vegetables, unlike autumn cabbage, which takes a little longer to cook. Ready cabbage soup can be stored in the refrigerator for several days. Real cabbage soup turns out tastier than freshly prepared cabbage soup.

    Looking at the variety of tomato varieties, it’s hard not to get confused - the choice is very wide today. Even experienced gardeners are sometimes confused by it! However, understanding the basics of selecting varieties “for yourself” is not so difficult. The main thing is to delve into the peculiarities of the culture and start experimenting. One of the easiest groups of tomatoes to grow are varieties and hybrids with limited growth. They have always been valued by those gardeners who do not have much energy and time to care for their beds.

    Once very popular under the name of indoor nettle, and then forgotten by everyone, coleus today is one of the brightest garden and indoor plants. It is not for nothing that they are considered stars of the first magnitude for those who are primarily looking for non-standard colors. Easy to grow, but not so undemanding as to suit everyone, coleus require constant supervision. But if you take care of them, bushes made of velvety unique leaves will easily outshine any competitor.

    Salmon backbone baked in Provençal herbs provides tasty pieces of fish pulp for a light salad with fresh wild garlic leaves. The champignons are lightly fried in olive oil and then poured over apple cider vinegar. These mushrooms are tastier than regular pickled ones, and they are better suited for baked fish. Wild garlic and fresh dill get along well in one salad, highlighting each other’s aroma. The garlicky pungency of wild garlic will permeate both the salmon flesh and mushroom pieces.

    Conifer tree or shrubs on the site is always great, but a lot of conifers is even better. Emerald needles of various shades decorate the garden at any time of the year, and phytoncides and essential oils, released by plants, not only aromatize, but also make the air cleaner. As a rule, most zoned adults coniferous plants, are considered very unpretentious trees and shrubs. But young seedlings are much more capricious and require proper care and attention.

    Sakura is most often associated with Japan and its culture. Picnics under the canopy of flowering trees have long become an integral attribute of welcoming spring in the Land of the Rising Sun. Financial and academic year here it starts on April 1, when the magnificent cherry blossoms bloom. Therefore many significant moments in the life of the Japanese are marked by their flowering. But sakura also grows well in cooler regions - certain species can be successfully grown even in Siberia.

    I am very interested in analyzing how people's tastes and preferences for certain foods have changed over the centuries. What was once considered tasty and was an item of trade, lost its value over time and, conversely, new fruit crops conquered their markets. Quince has been cultivated for more than 4 thousand years! And even in the 1st century B.C. e. About 6 varieties of quince were known, and even then methods of its propagation and cultivation were described.

    Delight your family and prepare themed cottage cheese cookies in the shape of Easter eggs! Your children will be happy to take part in the process - sift the flour, combine all the necessary ingredients, knead the dough and cut out intricate figures. Then they will watch with admiration as the pieces of dough turn into real ones. Easter eggs, and then with the same enthusiasm they will eat them with milk or tea. How to make such original cookies for Easter, read our step by step recipe!

    Among tuberous crops, there are not so many decorative deciduous favorites. And caladium is a true star among the variegated inhabitants of interiors. Not everyone can decide to own a caladium. This plant is demanding, and first of all, it requires care. But still, rumors about the extraordinary capriciousness of caladiums are never justified. Attention and care can avoid any difficulties when growing caladiums. And the plant can almost always forgive small mistakes.

    We have prepared a hearty, incredibly appetizing and simply easy-to-prepare dish for you today. This sauce is one hundred percent universal, as it goes with every side dish: vegetables, pasta, or anything. Chicken and mushroom gravy will save you in moments when you don’t have time or don’t want to think too much about what to cook. Take your favorite side dish (you can do this in advance so everything is hot), add some gravy and dinner is ready! A real lifesaver.

    Among the many different varieties We will tell you about three of these most popular vegetables, which are distinguished by their excellent taste and relatively unpretentious growing conditions. Characteristics of the eggplant varieties “Almaz”, “Black Beauty” and “Valentina”. All eggplants have medium-density pulp. In Almaz it is greenish, while in the other two it is yellowish-white. They are united by good germination and excellent yield, but in different time. Everyone's skin color and shape are different.