Plant of the Week: Rhododendron
These early blooming shrubs are some of the most eye-catching. With their colorful blooms who could mistake a Rhododendron, let alone spell their name. These shrubs are a staple for foundation plantings and are one of our favorites!
These distinctive flowers feature 5 anthers per flower and large flat leaves that stay green throughout the year. Another shrub, the Azalea, is a sub-species of a Rhododendron. It doesn’t qualify as a Rhododendron due to the amount of anthers in the flowers.
How to care for rhododendrons:
Rhododendrons prefer well-drained and acidic soils. However be careful. Too much or too little sun or shade, as well as not enough water are quick problems that may cause your shrub to not bloom. Research your rhododendrons before you purchase one to make sure you buy the right type for your climate.
Here are some benefits to pruning:
If your rhododendron is too tall and you are looking to reduce the height, wait until after flowering to decrease the chance of reducing blooms for next year. However if you are looking to remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches, you can do that when you need to.
Garrick-Santo Landscape Co.
(781) 322-0006 — 110 Eames Street Wilmington, MA 01887
Proudly serving North Suburban Boston, North Shore, Merrimack Valley, Metro West since 1981
