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Rhododendron: acid soil, moisture and pale leaves

Rhododendron. Alkaline soil can block nutrient uptake even when fertilizer is present.

Rhododendron

Light

Part shade or gentle sun, sheltered from drying wind.

Watering

Keep the shallow root zone evenly moist without waterlogging.

Soil

Acidic, humus-rich and free-draining.

More useful detail

Care over time

Through the seasons

Protect shallow roots with an airy mulch and water during dry periods before winter.

Growth and maintenance

Deadhead carefully where useful and avoid disturbing the fine surface roots.

Plant

A simple care routine for Rhododendron

  1. 1

    Check the available light and moisture below the surface.

  2. 2

    Check pH, mulch and moisture before adding a general fertilizer.

  3. 3

    Track new growth and change only one condition at a time.

Observation

Changes worth checking

  • Young leaves yellowing between veins
  • Rolled leaves during drought or frost
  • Bud failure after a hard cut
Important

Rhododendron is toxic if eaten. Keep plant material away from children, pets and livestock.

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Related guides and features

Library Plant care library Practical plant profiles for light, watering, soil and the changes worth watching. Read the guide → Library Plant problems Yellow leaves, brown spots and root problems: learn what to inspect first and how to avoid making the situation worse. Read the guide → Feature Plant care and garden planner Florli brings plants, places, work history and weather into one focused list for today and the days ahead. Read the guide →
Sources and further reading: RHS: plants and gardening advice

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Prepared by Florli. This is general guidance. Sources are listed with each guide, and every decision should reflect the species, location, weather and the plant’s current condition.