Gardening for Trees & Plants : Growing Rhododendron

Rhododendrons are native to the northwest, but they can be found growing all over the world.

The natural environment for rhododendrons is in high elevation, underneath fir trees, at the base of meadows.

Rhododendrons prefer soil with good drainage, so it is best to provide rocks underneath, good compost, and potting soil.

Yes, rhododendrons do better with a little bit of shade, especially in the hot afternoon sun.

Rhododendrons should be pruned every year by trimming back the dead flowers. It is best to do this in the fall or winter, not removing more than one third of the plant at a time.