These shrubs are great during flowering. At the beginning of the 19th century, rhododendrons began to decorate Russian gardens for the first time. Varieties grown in open ground, planting, care, reproduction: we cultivate rhododendrons according to all the rules.
Description of rhododendron: varieties and varieties
The genus of rhododendrons is quite extensive - more than 1,000 species, which include various varieties of this wonderful plant. The natural area of \u200b\u200bdistribution of rhododendrons is limited to the eastern countries: China, Japan, Korea, the Himalayas; some plant species are found in the Caucasus, North America, northern Africa and Australia. In European territory, two varieties of rhododendron grow in the mountainous regions of Germany.
Rhododendron is a magnificent plant with a long flowering period
The culture belongs to flowering deciduous or evergreen shrubs of the heather family. The branches of the plant can have smooth bark or pubescence. Leathery, dark green small ovoid leaves are sometimes pubescent. The flowers are bell-shaped, funnel-shaped, simple and double. The color of the petals varies depending on the variety: white, pink, lilac, red, purple. Modern varieties of rhododendron are yellow and orange in color. Numerous small seeds ripen in capsules.
Rhododendrons, the cultivation of which on the territory of Russia is the most acceptable, is limited to 26 species belonging to three groups of plants.
- Evergreens are tall shrubs that do not shed their dark leathery foliage even in winter. Large flowers are painted in different colors and tones. Growing evergreen rhododendrons outdoors requires a number of necessary rules: plants are placed in places with diffused shadow; the soil for them should include a large amount of peat.
Rhododendron evergreen
Tip: It is important to choose the right neighborhood for evergreen species of rhododendron, especially when decorating territories in landscape design. It can be of all types conifers, heather, open field ferns.
- Intermediate (semi-evergreen) - low shrubs that winter well under a layer of snow. The plant is characterized by a compact form, a huge number of flowers during the flowering period. In winter, most of the leathery leaves fall off, leaving only the whorl of leaves at the ends of the branches, from the center of which new foliage grows.
Semi-evergreen rhododendron
- Deciduous - rhododendrons of this group are most adapted to the conditions of the Russian climate. The cultivation of these plants is not difficult, and the plants themselves do not need to specially adapt in winter. Blossoming in spring, repeated in autumn.
Deciduous rhododendron, grade "Fireworks"
Planting a plant
Rhododendron: planting and caring for plants in compliance with agrotechnical rules - plant transplantation is allowed in spring and autumn. In autumn - in any of three months, in spring - in warm, well-established weather, when the soil is no longer frozen (usually April or May).
The choice of a place for planting a plant must be carried out with special care. Planting rhododendrons should be protected from the prevailing wind and direct sunlight. It is important that the shrub is accessible for viewing, then decorative view plants during flowering will decorate the territory and please the eye.
Tip: Before planting the plant from the container into the open ground, it should be thoroughly saturated with water.
A planting hole for rhododendron bushes is prepared based on the actual size of the root system, and should be 2 times larger in volume. The natural soil should be removed completely. To plant a plant, it is required to prepare a special earthen soil consisting in equal parts of heather soil; peat; garden soil or leaf humus; rotted manure; needles (pine).
It is very important to plant the plant correctly, then it will quickly take root
The prepared pit is filled with a mixture, a place is prepared in it for planting a rhododendron bush, which must be placed strictly vertically. The soil around the root system of the plant must be tightly squeezed - the formation of voids and "pockets" in the planting soil is not allowed. When high level groundwater, it is necessary to provide for the laying of a special drainage layer at the bottom of the pit. After planting, the top layer of soil should be mulched with peat chips.
Rhododendron: proper watering
Watering the planted plant is carried out at the time of planting, - abundant, sufficient to moisten the soil to a depth of 20-30 cm. Subsequent watering of the rhododendron should be done with soft, acidified water, with complete moistening of the soil.
Tip: When planting a plant with buds, you must remove most of them.
Plant care
A transplanted plant requires attention and careful care. In addition to regular abundant watering, the rhododendron needs spraying over the foliage, especially when planting in late spring. The soil needs to be mulched to maintain sufficient moisture. When mulching, you should choose options that increase the acidity of the soil.
The plant needs regular watering
The root system of rhododendrons consists of delicate, fine hairs, similar to matted hair, so loosening the soil, especially deep, should be excluded from flower care measures. Weeds growing next to the plant need to be removed periodically.
The appearance of the plant will immediately report a lack or excess of water - the leaves of the rhododendron will begin to turn yellow and fall off. Watering is required in sufficient quantities, but without overflow, this is one of the main rules of crop care.
To provide proper care for the rhododendron, it is important to carry out timely pruning of overgrown bushes. Places of cuts to prevent infection of the plant are covered with paint or garden varnish.
Bushes need to be pruned periodically
Compliance with simple plant care requirements will allow you to grow a wonderful flowering bush.
Fertilizing and feeding rhododendron
In the first year, the transplanted plants already require careful fertilization, which is applied in a highly diluted form, in small portions. The plant itself will signal the need for fertilization: it will stop growing, shed the foliage or the leaves will change color, the formation of flower buds will stop.
Organic fertilizer for feeding rhododendron bushes - semi-decomposed manure, which must be infused in water. Top dressing is carried out with an aqueous solution of manure. To increase the formation of flower buds, as well as to extend the flowering time, granular superphosphate is used, or double superphosphate, which crumbles on wet soil under the plants. The plant is also useful for fertilizing with microelements - fertilizers are applied in the form of watering or spraying the green mass of the bush. Intensively fertilizing the bushes is required until the end of August.
Rhododendron before flowering
Reproduction of rhododendron
Growing rhododendron involves plant propagation by layering and seeds, dividing the bush, grafting, cuttings.
Seed propagation is a great way to get plants with improved traits. Sowing is carried out from late December to late March. The second period suitable for seed propagation of rhododendrons is the end of November.
Sowing seeds is carried out in shallow bowls or boxes filled with a nutrient mixture of peat, sand, coniferous and sod land, taken in equal proportions. The seeds are pre-soaked for a day. Sowing is carried out on the top layer of the soil, without embedding deep into the soil. The sowing is moistened by spraying. It is required to provide seedlings with 12-hour illumination with lamps daylight... The timing of seed germination depends on the variety. The first flowering of seedlings is possible in 3-4 years.
Rhododendron seeds
This method has its advantages, but for seed reproduction rhododendrons to obtain full-fledged plants take up to 5-6 years.
Faster new plants can be obtained with vegetative methods of culture propagation: cuttings, division of the bush, rooting of cuttings.
Diseases and pests
Compliance with the requirements for agricultural technology of rhododendrons guarantees excellent growth and development of plants. However, repeated waterlogging or overdrying of the soil, alkaline reaction of the soil, sunburn of leaves, can provoke a surge in crop diseases.
Plants can be damaged by spots, rust and chlorosis. Disease control measures - improvement of plant conditions, application special means to fight disease. Often rhododendron diseases are caused by pathogenic fungi: gray rot, fusarium, late blight.
Spotting is a fungal disease of rhododendron
Pests that damage rhododendrons: slugs and snails that eat young leaves and buds. The collection of these pests is done manually. In addition, the plant is harmed by: bedbugs (rhododendron), spider mites, mealybugs, weevils, scale insects, rhododendra fly. Pest control is easy with systemic insecticides.
Rhododendron: Combination with other plants
Planting plants in combination with conifers and a group of heathers has a positive effect on the development of rhododendrons. It should be remembered about the height of the rhododendron bush. Low cultivars should be located away from the dense shade of mature trees, but avoiding direct sunlight.
Blooming rhododendron perfectly sets off conifers
An excellent combination is observed when located near the rhododendrons of shade-loving ferns and host.
In landscape design, rhododendron is an indispensable attribute for planting in partial shade. The huge advantages of the plant are its long and very decorative flowering. Rhododendrons are widely used in the design of heather gardens, as an addition to the planting of pine groves. The plant looks great in mono plantings.
Rhododendron in landscape design
Low-growing varieties of rhododendrons are planted near alpine hills, in mixborders and in decorative flower beds.
Planting a garden rhododendron: video
Types of rhododendron: photo
– it is a charming ornamental plant for your garden. But it is not easy to grow it in our area. The homeland of this flower is the Mediterranean, which speaks of its thermophilicity, and poor frost tolerance. Therefore, in order for the plant to take root, it will be necessary to comply with all the conditions of correct agricultural technology and provide it with proper care. Today we will talk about how to choose the right seedlings for planting a rhododendron on your site, about the features of this process, and also pay attention to the subsequent care and preparation of rhododendron for winter. In addition, information regarding its application in landscape design will be no less useful.
The correct choice of planting material
Two- or four-year-old rhododendron bushes are best suited for planting. When buying, pay attention to the bushiness of the cuttings of the seedling (the most tenacious branches immediately near the root collar), and to its leaves (should be free of spots and swellings). Also, be sure to inspect the roots of the seedling, it is unacceptable that they have wet blotches and knots. The place where you buy the seedlings is also important.
It is best to buy them in experienced gardeners or special nurseries, and it is not desirable in the markets, since they have much less chances (most sellers simply do not know what varieties and species they trade).
Important! For beginners, it is recommended to start not with a specific variety of rhododendron, but with planting the species. Since the species is less whimsical, and more frost-resistant than the variety obtained on its basis. Despite the fact that the varieties are very tempting with their wide variety of shades, the species also stand out for the variety of colors.
Planting rhododendron in the garden
When planting a rhododendron in a garden, you must follow certain guidelines when and where to plant a rhododendron, how to do it correctly, and how to prepare the soil.
Did you know? Arboreal rhododendron is the national flower of Nepal. In this country, rhododendron is used in the form of pickled flowers, and in the form of juice.
When to plant rhododendron
It is recommended to plant rhododendron in the ground from early April to mid-May, and from September to November. But in fact, this can be done at any time during the growing season of the plant, in addition to the flowering period of the rhododendron, and a couple of weeks after the end of flowering.
Where is the best place to plant rhododendron on the site
It is better to plant a rhododendron in a shady place, on the north side of the house. The soil should be loose, acidic, well-drained, rich in humus. When the groundwater in your area lies at a depth of less than one meter, then the plant is planted in a raised bed. When planting a rhododendron, it is also important to pay attention to nearby plants.
It is undesirable to plant rhododendron close to trees that have a superficial root system, since they will take everything from the plant nutrients... Undesirable neighbors should also include birch, willow, maple, chestnut, linden, alder, and the residents of the site near which rhododendrons can be planted include apple, pear, pine, spruce, larch, poplar.
How to prepare the soil and plant a rhododendron
- First of all, prepare the planting hole. The hole is dug about 40 cm deep and about 60 cm in diameter.
- Then make a mixture of eight buckets of high-moor peat and three and a half buckets of loam (loam can be replaced with two buckets of clay). Stir this mixture thoroughly, pour into the pit, and tamp well.
- After that, dig a hole in the ground the same size as the root ball of the seedling.
- Before direct planting, place the rhododendron seedlings in water and keep them there until air bubbles stop emerging.
- Place the seedling in the hole and sprinkle the hole with the substrate to the very top, so that the root collar is at the level of the surface of the site, tamping it down to eliminate all voids.
- Water the plant abundantly, and mulch the soil around the trunk with peat, moss, sawdust, oak leaves, or pine needles, in a layer of about 5-6 cm.
Important! If there are many flower buds on the seedling, then it is better to remove them so that all the plant's forces are directed at rooting the rhododendron, and not at its flowering.
Combining rhododendron with other plants and use in landscaping
Rhododendron will find its place in landscaping in almost any style. The plant looks excellent in the role of a tapeworm, and in group compositions, and in the latter case, it is perfectly combined with conifers, and with other types of flowering plants. It is best to select the species with which the rhododendron grows in its natural environment - pines, larch trees, ferns, junipers, and others.
Rhododendron is perfect for decorating rocky gardens and alpine slides. For this, undersized species of rhododendron with different flowering periods are suitable. You can compose them, making out rocky slopes, with gentian, mountain pine, heather.
Medium-sized species of rhododendron are often used in group plantings in the form of living fences, with the selection of the desired plant shades. For example, rhododendrons with yellow flowers go well with those shrubs that bloom with red and bright orange flowers, and rhododendrons with purple and pink flowers - with plants that bloom in white.
Shrubs planted on the lawn or along garden paths and borders look good, especially when decorating a parterre lawn, although in this case only adult rhododendron shrubs are suitable (at least ten years old).
When creating group compositions with rhododendrons, it is recommended to combine evergreen species with deciduous, while correctly "mixing" the plants different heights. Tall bushes look better in the center of the composition, and undersized ones at the edges.
Proper care of rhododendron in the garden
Caring for rhododendron consists of the usual procedures for plants: feeding, watering, spraying, weeding, pest and disease control, and bush formation.
Important! Loosening the soil around the plant is prohibited, and even more so digging it up, since the roots of the rhododendron are placed too close to the surface. For the same reason, it is better to remove weeds by hand, without using a hoe.
How to water
Rhododendron requires atmospheric and soil moisture more than other plants, especially when buds are formed and during flowering. You need to water it regularly, and in dry weather you should also spray the plants with water. Correct watering also affects the laying of flower buds of the rhododendron next year. Water the plant with soft water (settled, thawed, or rain), which can be softened with a handful of high-moor peat, thrown a day before watering.
The frequency of application of the liquid is determined by the state of the leaves: for example, when they are dull and have lost their elasticity, then the plant is thirsty. When watering, the soil should be soaked 20-30 cm deep.
Important! When watering, do not pour rhododendron roots, because they are very sensitive to excess moisture. You can find out about an overabundance of liquid by looking down and curled up leaves.
How to feed the plant
The first feeding of rhododendron is done in early spring, and the last one - at the end of July, at the end of the flowering period, when young shoots begin to grow. You can use semi-rotten cow dung and horn meal to feed the plant. Rhododendron prefers liquid feeding, so the manure is poured with water (ratio 1:15), and left to infuse for a couple of days. Before fertilizing the rhododendron, it should be watered.
If we talk about mineral fertilizers, then in order not to disturb the reaction of the environment (rhododendron grows in acidic soils), it is best to use superphosphate, ammonium sulfate, magnesium of low concentration (1.2: 1000), and even weaker solution of potassium fertilizers.
Optimal mode top dressing involves the introduction of organic or mineral nitrogen-containing fertilizers at the rate of fifty grams of magnesium sulfate and fifty grams of ammonium sulfate per square meter (fertilizers are applied to the soil in early spring), and at the end of the flowering period (in early June) - one square meter should account for forty grams of ammonium sulfate and twenty grams potassium sulfate and superphosphate. In July, only twenty grams of potassium sulfate and superphosphate are introduced per square meter.
Did you know? Honey from the nectar of some rhododendron species has hallucinogenic and laxative properties. Even the ancient Romans and Greeks talked about side effects honey from rhododendron.
How to prune a rhododendron
Rhododendron requires minimal shaping and pruning, as its bushes form by themselves correct shape... However, from time to time it will be necessary to trim too tall, frozen or old shoots, which will help rejuvenate the rhododendron. Rhododendron shoots are cut in early spring, and the places of the cuts are processed with garden pitch (but only where the thickness of the branches reaches 2-4 cm).
After a month, the dormant buds on the shoots wake up, and the renewal process begins, which lasts for a year. Heavily frozen or very old bushes are cut at a height of 30-40 cm from the ground - one half of the bush in the first year, and the second - the next.
Important! Rhododendrons have a characteristic feature: in one year they bloom and bear fruit quite generously, and the next year they are much more modest. To get rid of such periodicity, it is necessary to break off the wilted inflorescences immediately after flowering. Then the rhododendron will use the strength and nutrition to form flower buds for the next year.
Preparing for winter and sheltering a rhododendron
It is necessary to prepare rhododendron for winter in advance. To do this, from the end of summer, you should stop feeding the plant with nitrogen, and switch to potash fertilizers (this will help the ripening of late growths). You can also add colloidal sulfur to the soil, which will acidify the soil and slow down the growth of fungi.
Rhododendron flowers are considered popular and interesting plants that adorn any garden. They belong to the genus of deciduous or semi-deciduous trees and shrubs. They are part of the Heather family. The literal translation of the name of this plant is a rose tree, since the inflorescences really resemble unique and attractive roses in appearance.
Rhododendrons
Note! Rhododendron flowers can vary significantly in size and shape, as well as in color, which allows you to choose the optimal type of plant for each grower.
Description of rhododendron
Rhododendrons grow naturally in Japan and the Himalayas, and are also found in North America and southern China. They often grow on the coast of different seas, rivers or oceans.
The features of garden rhododendrons include:
- is a shrub equipped with leaves of different configuration and dimensions, and shrubs can be annuals, biennials or perennials;
- sessile or petiolate, as well as serrate or ovoid leaves are found;
- rhododendron is incredibly popular due to the attractive appearance of the leaves, but flowers with white, pink, purple or red tints are considered the most beautiful;
- flowers are collected in brushes or shields, so they form rather large bouquets, striking in their decorativeness and sophistication;
- rhododendron flowers can have a different shape, which completely depends on the variety and type of plant, so they can be funnel-shaped or tubular, bell-shaped or wheel-shaped;
- in many varieties, flowers have a unique pleasant aroma;
- the fruit is five-leafed capsules, which contain many seeds;
- rhododendron seeds do not exceed 2 mm in length;
- the root system of the plant is compact;
- the roots are located on the surface of the earth, so transplanting a rhododendron is an easy and quick job.
Note! This flower is in demand in the territories where beekeeping apiaries are arranged, since the rhododendron is an early spring honey plant.
Types and varieties of rhododendron
There are a huge number of different types of rhododendron, but the most popular are:
- Daurskyrhododendron. It occurs naturally near coniferous forests or on rocks. It is represented by an evergreen shrub with significant branching and medium height. Its height varies from 2 to 4 m. It has gray bark and long branches directed upwards. Leaves possess small size, since they usually do not exceed 3 cm in length. Moreover, the plates are smooth on top and scaly below. Some leaves stay on the bush at all throughout the winter. The flowering of this rhododendron lasts about 3 weeks, and the inflorescences appear before the immediate blooming of the leaves. The flowers are funnel-shaped and purple-pink in color. Their size reaches 4 cm in diameter. Blossoming is often repeated in autumn. The species is considered resistant to frost and propagates by cuttings.
Rhododendron daurian (Rhododendron dauricum)
- Japanese rhododendron. This species grows in nature in Japan, and is considered one of the most attractive and interesting. It is represented by a branchy shrub, the height of which is within 2 meters. It has bare shoots, and some may have silvery bristles. The leaves of this rhododendron are green and oblong. They have soft pubescence on both sides. In autumn, they acquire a reddish tint. The flowers are bell-shaped, and their size is about 8 cm in diameter. They are collected in racemose inflorescences of about 8 pieces. They have an orange or red tint.
Japanese Rhododendron (Rhododendron japonicum)
- Hybrid. This includes the many varieties obtained by combining different types rhododendron. The most popular varieties are: Blue Peter, Alfred and Rose Marie.
Rhododendron Blue Peter
Rhododendron Alfred
Rhododendron Rose Marie
Thus, before the direct acquisition of a certain species or variety of rhododendron, it is necessary to decide which variety is optimal for growing.
Rhododendron - landing
Russian climatic conditions are considered not too suitable for this plant, therefore, exclusively winter-hardy varieties are chosen. The planting procedure is accompanied by certain features:
- it is recommended to plant rhododendrons in the ground between the beginning of April and mid-May, and it is also allowed to carry out the process in the fall, namely in October;
- planting is not allowed during the flowering period, therefore, this process is usually performed 2 weeks after its end;
- for planting a rhododendron, it is advisable to choose shaded areas of the territory, therefore, the northern side of the building is considered optimal;
- loose soil with a high acidity is being prepared, and it is desirable to additionally add humus to it;
- the soil must be well drained;
- if the groundwater is located close to the surface of the earth, then it is recommended to plant the rhododendron using a raised bed;
- it is optimal to plant a plant next to an oak or larch, as well as other trees, whose roots go deep into the ground;
- for planting a rhododendron, an optimal planting pit is created, the diameter of which is approximately 60 cm;
- its depth should be about 40 cm;
- a mixture of peat and loam is poured into it, since these components are considered optimal for creating a high-quality planting mixture;
- this mixture is well rammed in the hole, after which a hole is made in it, the dimensions of which are completely equal to the root coma of the prepared seedling;
- it is recommended to prepare well the seedlings of rhododendron, for which they are immersed in water before planting and kept there until air bubbles appear on the surface;
- the roots of the plant are lowered into the prepared hole, after which the hole is covered with a substrate;
- it ramps well, since voids are not allowed;
- if the soil has not been moistened in advance, after planting the rhododendron is well watered, and it is important that the soil is moistened by about 20 cm in depth;
- trunk circle mulched with peat, and oak leaves or moss are also used for this;
- if a rhododendron seedling was purchased, equipped with a large number of buds, then some of them are eliminated so that all the forces of the plant are directed to rooting;
- for protection from the wind, it is recommended to use a support, and it tilts towards the winds, and it is removed after the rhododendron bush takes root well.
Note! When the right process planting the root collar of the seedling is at ground level.
Rhododendron - care
These plants are considered easy to care for, therefore, light actions are performed for optimal growth:
- it is not allowed to loosen or dig up the soil next to the rhododendron bushes, as you can easily damage the roots located near the surface of the earth;
- weeds are removed exclusively by hand, so you cannot use a hoe or other auxiliary tools;
- rhododendron is considered a specific plant that needs a lot of moisture, not only in the soil, but also in the atmosphere, and this is especially true during the period when buds are formed or the flower begins to bloom;
- it is recommended to water the flowers with exceptionally soft and settled water;
- it is allowed to add a little peat to the water a day before using it;
- the amount of watering of rhododendron is quite easy to determine after examining the state of the leaves, since if they become dull, then it is imperative to water them;
- it is necessary to water with a significant amount of water in order to shed the soil to a depth of about 30 cm, but it is not allowed to flood the roots too much, as this can lead to the drooping and folding of the leaves;
- it is recommended to additionally spray rhododendron leaves in hot weather;
- plant pruning is carried out minimally, since the bushes themselves form an attractive and regular shape, but sometimes it is required to cut excessively tall bushes;
- frozen shoots are removed by pruning, and this process must be performed in early spring;
- cuts are processed with garden varnish;
- by all means, top dressing is introduced for all rhododendrons, and this process must be performed in early spring and in mid-summer after the end of flowering;
- it is advisable for this plant to use liquid fertilizers obtained with the use of horny flour and cow dung;
- water the plant well before using top dressing;
- rhododendrons are grown in acidic soil, so fertilizers suitable for such soil are selected.
Note! A specific feature of rhododendron is that in one year it strikes with abundant and attractive flowering, but the next year fruiting and flowering deteriorates, and in order to prevent such consequences, it is recommended to remove wilted inflorescences after flowering, as this will lead to the fact that all the forces of the plant will be directed to the formation of new kidneys.
Thus, there are no particular difficulties in caring for rhododendron, so if you carefully study all the rules, they will always delight you with abundant and beautiful flowering. 
Rhododendron after flowering
In autumn, it is required to water the plants well in dry weather. If the rains are regular, then you can not water the rhododendrons at all. In November, the bushes near the roots are insulated, for which a sufficiently dense layer of peat is used.
For optimal wintering, it is recommended to cover the plants with burlap, under which spruce or pine branches are laid. Such a shelter is removed in early spring after the snow melts. 
Diseases and pests of rhododendrons
Pests are often found on the plant:
- spider mites, bugs and weevils, and they should be destroyed with diazinon;
- flies and mealybugs, as well as snails, scale insects and other pests are removed by karbofos.
Fungal diseases in rhododendrons are common, including cancer, rust, or leaf spot. Usually their appearance is associated with poor aeration of the roots. To eliminate diseases, copper sulfate or other special preparations are used.
Chlorosis causes rhododendrons to turn yellow, so when watering it is recommended to use water with the addition of iron. Cancer-affected shoots are removed, and the whole plant is treated with Bordeaux liquid for prevention. 
Rhododendron in the Moscow region
Many people are interested in the possibility of growing a rhododendron in the Moscow region, as this plant is striking in its sophistication and attractiveness, so it can be a decoration of any site.
Note! Many people buy a plant, plant it on the territory and observe the decay of the rhododendron, and this is due to improper care behind him.
The main features of growing a flower in the Moscow region include:
- exclusively frost-resistant varieties are selected that can withstand a significant drop in temperature;
- planting is carried out in the spring and in a place where there is partial shade;
- the close proximity of rhododendron with other flowers is not desirable, so a distance of about 1 m is left between them;
- it is recommended to purchase a special soil intended for rhododendrons;
- the hole for planting is 2 times larger than the root system of the existing seedling;
- if there is clay soil, then a drainage layer is made at the bottom of the planting pit;
- it is not allowed to significantly deepen the root neck of the rhododendron;
- the seedling is watered after planting;
- balanced, regular and deep watering is certainly carried out;
- if a lot of sunlight gets on the rhododendron, then it is recommended to cover it with gauze or mesh;
- circles are mulched next to the plant, but it is not allowed to loosen or dig up the flower.
Thus, the key to effective and optimal growth and development of rhododendron in the Moscow region is its competent planting and proper care. 
Rhododendron properties
Rhododendron has not only an attractive and unique appearance, but also some useful properties. These include:
- some varieties contain ascorbic acid, and its content is maximum in the summer;
- rhododendron is used to reduce pressure, get rid of edema and shortness of breath, and also helps to remove excess fluid from the body;
- can be used as an antipyretic and pain reliever;
- used to calm down.
Note! Rhododendron is not a harmless plant, therefore, it is forbidden to take it to pregnant and lactating women, as well as people with kidney disease.
Rhododendron flowers - photo
Mother's Day Rhododendron
Thus, the rhododendron is a beautiful plant that requires optimal care for its growth and flowering. With a competent approach, it is ensured that a truly attractive and bright plant is obtained, which becomes a real decoration of the territory. It can be used to treat various diseases due to its many beneficial properties.
The frost resistance of rhododendron is quite high, but in regions with prolonged low temperatures for the winter, it is better to cover these bushes.
Where does the rhododendron rose grow, a description of the leaves and flowers of the shrub
The rhododendron plant (Rhododendron) belongs to the Heather family. His homeland is Asia, America, Europe, Siberia, the Far East, the Caucasus, Altai.
The rhododendron tree came down to us from the mountains, which means that it loves stony soil, it is quite cold-resistant, it is easier than the plants of the valleys to tolerate sharp temperature fluctuations. In the northwestern climate, these are quite frost-hardy plants, but not winter-hardy. In addition to the winter thaws, there are also treacherous late spring frosts, to which few plants have been able to adapt. Where does rhododendron grow in Russia? In our country, these plants are common in the wild in the Sikhote-Alin mountains, Sakhalin, Kamchatka and the Far East, and they manage to climb to great heights (2–4 km!). Often in natural conditions shrubs of rhododendrons grow under the canopy of a rare pine forest. Most rhododendrons love acidic soil and prefer to grow in partial shade.
Rhododendrons were introduced to Europe just some two hundred years ago, and by the beginning of the 19th century there were only about 15 species of them. They turned out to be such an attractive material for breeding that literally an avalanche-like process began not only for breeding new varieties and hybrids, but also for the search for all new species growing in nature. Today, there are thousands of varieties of these amazing plants!
Slowly but surely, rhododendron bushes are spreading not only through the gardens and parks of the world, but also on our dear six acres. If even twenty years ago they were an exotic rarity, now a rare gardener does not try to "domesticate" them on his site.
Rhododendrons are very diverse. There are trees among them. Their height reaches six meters, and there are real twenty-meter giants! However, there are also many shrub forms from 80 cm to 2-3 m in height. There are also dwarf individuals that form low cushions only 30 cm high. There are creeping species, by the way, the most suitable for the Northwest region.
As you can see in the photo, bell-shaped, cup-shaped or funnel-shaped rhododendron flowers can be from 0.5 cm in diameter to 10 or even 15 cm, and their color is always bright, and the palette of colors is unusually wide:
There is perhaps no black and blue flowers... Almost all species have leathery glossy oval leaves. Abundant flowering. Good, healthy plants are capable of full blooming. Rhododendrons, generally speaking, are long-livers, therefore, when you acquire them, remember that you are planting a plant for many years, and therefore you cannot stick a rhododendron anywhere and anyway. The place for it must be chosen thoughtfully, the soil for planting must be prepared in advance. And only then go to nurseries and choose a plant very carefully, having found out what kind or variety you are getting, what features it has, because not all species, let alone varieties and hybrids of rhododendrons, can grow in your climatic zone and specifically in your garden.
The Heather family. The genus got its name from the Greek words rhodon - rose and dendron - tree. The rhododendron rose includes about 1,300 species and about 30,000 varieties of evergreen, semi-evergreen and deciduous shrubs and trees that grow in the cold and temperate zones of the Northern Hemisphere, especially in the mountains. Original ornamental shrubs or even small trees with dense, leathery, evergreen foliage and large bell-shaped flowers are very popular all over the world. Interest in the rhododendron is due to the decorative foliage and the variety of forms of the bushes, but most of all - the splendor of white, pink, purple, purple, red flowers, collected in umbrella-shaped, reminiscent of a bouquet of inflorescences.
Rhododendron is very ornamental shrub, depending on the species, can have any height, but usually reaches up to two meters, with a superficial, compact root system consisting of a large number of fibrous roots, with leaves of various sizes and shapes, which can be both perennial and annual , at the same time, both sessile and with petioles, with bisexual, large funnel-shaped or bell-shaped flowers in lush umbellate or corymbose inflorescences of any color, located at the tips of branches, as well as with rod-shaped, small seeds in a five-leafed, multi-seeded box, opened down.
A highly demanding plant that prefers moist but drained, lime-free soil, high humidity air and slight shading. IN young age develops very slowly. In addition, the plant needs to provide annual mulching of the land with peat in autumn, and in case of drought - abundant watering. Better process plant propagation in the summer, using layering for this.
The shrub rhododendron flower is recommended for wide use in landscaping garden plots in group plantings and tapeworms on lawns. The shrub is prized for its beautiful autumn leaf color. Many evergreen species are suitable for indoor cultivation. Rhododendron in the garden can be planted uncomfortable places Location on. Stunted curbs and hedges are excellently obtained from them. It has many useful properties - soil-protecting, medicinal, essential oil, etc.
Types and varieties of rhododendron tree: photo and description
Among huge amount of various types of rhododendron for central Russia, the following types are especially suitable:
R. daursky (Rh. dahuricum) - strongly branched, medium-sized, deciduous shrub up to 2 - 2.5 m tall from the Khabarovsk and Primorsky Territories. Leaves are oblong, up to 5 cm long, green, and bright yellow in autumn. The flowers are pink-purple, funnel-shaped. This type of rhododendron blooms early and abundantly.
R. Kamchatsky (Ph. kamtschaticum) - home to the Far East of Russia, Japan, North America. Forms hemispherical bushes, bright carmine flowers, blooms in June - July.
R. canadian (Ph. canadense) - deciduous shrub up to 1 m tall. The leaves are elliptical, bluish-green. The flowers are pink-lilac. Blooms in April - May. R. Smirnova (Ph. Smirnowii) - the birthplace of the Caucasus, Turkey. Evergreen shrub up to 1 - 2 m tall, with oblong-elliptical leaves 8-10 cm long. Flowers are purple. Blooms from late May to mid June.
R. small-leaved (Ph. parviflorum) is an evergreen shrub 0.5 -0.6 m tall from Siberia, the Far East, Japan, Korea, and the USA. Leaves are oblong-lanceolate. Flowers up to 3 cm in diameter, golden in color. Blooms in May - June. A very beautiful plant.
These species, like others, with their elegance, richness of colors, invariably delight amateur gardeners.
In the conditions of central Russia, some species of rhododendron require shelter for the winter, especially for evergreens. The best time shelters is the first decade of November.
Rhododendron Ledebour – Rhododendron ledebourii. Blooms in April - May. The flowers are pinkish-lilac, the height of the bush is 0.5–1.8 m (hereinafter, the height of plants in culture is indicated). In winter, the leaves of rhododendrons remain on the bushes and fall off in the spring with the start of shoot growth.
Ketevbin rhododendron – Rhododendron catawbiense. Blooms in late May - June. The flowers are lilac-purple, the height of the bush is up to 1.5 m.
Rhododendron short-fruited – Rhododendron brachycarpum. Blooms in June-July. The flowers are white or slightly pinkish, the height of the bush is up to 10 m
Rhododendron largest – Rhododendron maximum. Blooms in June - July. The flowers are white or pink, the height of the bush is about 1.0 m.
Rhododendron Smirnov – Rhododendron smirnowii. Blooms in May - June. The flowers are pink, the height of the bush is up to 1.0 m.
Rhododendron Vasey – Rhododendron vaseyi. Blooms in May. The flowers are white pinkish, the height of the bush is 1.2 m.
Rhododendron yellow – Rhododendron luteum. It grows wild in the Caucasus, the Balkans, and Asia Minor. A beautiful deciduous shrub of a spreading shape, up to 2-3 m high, with oblong-ovate, bright green leaves. In autumn, foliage is colored in various shades of red and orange. The flowers are large, yellow, very fragrant, up to 5–8 cm in diameter. Blooms in late May - June.
Rhododendron spiky – Rhododendron mucronulatum. It grows wild in the Far East, Northeast China and Japan. Shrub 2-3 m tall, with elliptical, bright green, shiny leaves. The flowers are funnel-bell-shaped, up to 3-4 cm in diameter, pink, located several together or singly. Blooms in April, before the leaves open, very abundantly for about a month. When describing the rhododendron plant, it is worth noting its beautiful bronze foliage in the fall.
Pukhan rhododendron – Rhododendron khanense. Blooms in May - June. The flowers are pale lilac-purple, the height of the bush is 0.8 m. Young plants require shelter for the winter.
Rhododendron Schlippenbach – Rhododendron schlippenbachii. Blooms in May. The flowers are white or pinkish, the height of the bush is 1.0–1.2 m.
Japanese rhododendron – Rhododendron japonicum. Blooms in late May - June. The flowers are salmon-red, the height of the bush is 1.0–1.5 m. There is a form with yellow flowers.
In addition to species plants, there are many evergreen and deciduous varieties of rhododendrons, the description of which is characterized by high winter hardiness (the temperature is indicated for flower buds, the crops themselves are more hardy).
Ketevbin rhododendron hybrids (cold-resistance -32 ° C): "Alfred", "Boursault", "Catawbiense", "Grandiflorum", "Abraham Lincoln", "Zembla", "Rozeum Elegans" - bloom in late May - June, flowers are red-purple, purple, lilac; "Catawbiense album" - blooms in late May - June, white flowers.
Hybrids of Smirnov's rhododendron (cold resistance -26 ° C). Reach a height of 1.0 m: Gabriel, Beliefontaine, Dorothy Swift, Tut, Lajka.
Hybrids of Yakushiman rhododendron (cold hardiness of most varieties is -29 ° C, but there are varieties that can withstand -32 ° C). The height of the bushes does not exceed 1.0 m. The color of the flowers is pale pink, white-pink: "Appa N. Hall", "Mist Maiden", "Kep Janeck".
Among the hybrid forms of Caucasian rhododendron, it should be noted "Cunningham's White" (cold resistance -26 ° C).
In recent years, varieties have appeared, bred using a very winter-hardy form of short-fruited rhododendron (R. brachycarpum var. Tigerstedtii): "Pohjohlas Daughtef" - bush height 1 m, white flowers (cold resistance -34 ° C);
"Elviira" - bush height 0.6 m, red flowers (-34 ° C); "Hellikki" - bush height 1.5 m, red-violet flowers (-34 ° C);
"Helsinki University" - bush height 2.0 m, white flowers (-39 ° C);
"Mikkeli" - bush height 1.0 m, flowers are white-pink (-37 ° C);
"Peter Tigerstedf" - bush height 2.0 m, white flowers (-36 ° C).
When purchasing varieties of evergreen large-leaved rhododendrons, it should be remembered that not all of them withstand the winters of the middle lane. Most red-flowered varieties of European selection are characterized by the weakest winter hardiness, since the thermophilic arboreal rhododendron (Rh.arboreum) growing in the Himalayas was used to improve their decorative qualities in crosses.
Unpretentious views: Japanese rhododendron, yellow rhododendron, Schlippenbach rhododendron, Canadian rhododendron, Ledebour rhododendron. Even novice gardeners can grow them.
Which varieties of rhododendrons are preferable? Of course, species (that is, growing independently in nature), as well as cold-resistant varieties and hybrids (that is, created by the efforts of breeders). The height of the bushes is from 1.5 to 2.5 m. Flowering takes place (depending on the variety) from late April to late July, and each plant blooms for about three weeks or longer. If you can pick up plants with different flowering periods, then you don't need to plant anything else - the beauty of your site will be ensured.
Most rhododendrons with lilac-pink and different shades purple flowers... White flowers are also common. But a rather rare color - intense red, yellow or orange.
Red. Albrecht, Elizabeth, Scarlett.
Pink. Panenka, Mark, Renata.
Lilac, purple. Blue Peet, Sapphire, Bourzault.
Yellow, marigold, golden. Vlasta, Moravanka, Norma.
White. Jackson, Alena.
Rhododendrons are best planted in the light shade of trees, although they do well in light as well. The proximity of rhododendrons next to conifers is very successful, which create a favorable habitat for them. Group plantings of rhododendrons look very impressive, which can be monochromatic or composed of plants with different colors of flowers. The combination of tones creates a wonderful decorative effect.
Look at the photo - all varieties of rhododendrons are perfectly combined with lilacs, barberry, Japanese quince:
Compositions of different varieties with different external appearance (height) of the bush and color of flowers.
How to grow rhododendron flowers: planting site and soil preparation
The planting site for rhododendron flowers should be chosen taking into account the biological characteristics of this species, and the lighting conditions should be approximately the same as in natural environment habitat. Rhododendrons require moist, well-drained, acidic (pH 4.5-5.8), humus-rich soils. They can grow in sandy and rocky places. On neutral soils for rhododendrons, it is necessary to add sour peat. Lime, dolomite, ash and other materials or fertilizers that shift the pH of the soil to the alkaline side should not get into the root feeding zone. Have a small surface root system, therefore, when planting, the roots are not buried. When growing rhododendron, trunks are required. Peat, coniferous litter, moss or dry leaves (best of all oak) are suitable as mulch. It is undesirable to use maple leaves and horse chestnut, they decompose quickly and are alkaline. Mulch helps to preserve moisture in the soil, protects the roots from overheating in the heat, and in winter from freezing, inhibits the growth of weeds, rotting, increases the humus content and acidity of the soil. Its layer should be at least 5 cm. It is impossible to dig up and loosen the soil under the bushes.
One of the conditions for growing rhododendron is that the root material must not dry out. On the other hand, excess moisture is harmful, so excess water should be drained away. Since rhododendrons do not tolerate lime and chlorine, they should not be watered with chlorinated tap water or hard water that contains a lot of lime (causing sediment on dishes). They react very poorly to watering and spraying with hard (lime) water. First, their young roots will die off, and then the whole plant will die. When watering and spraying, add citric acid (2 g per 10 liters) or acetic acid (1 tablespoon of 9% table vinegar per 10 liters) to hard water.
Before growing a rhododendron, you need to choose the best place. Shrubs can be planted near other trees, for example, near spruce trees, in which the roots "go" to a great depth. Breeds with a root system close to the surface (willow) are not suitable. Their roots deprive the rhododendrons of moisture and nutrition, and they, in the end, die. In the case of forced planting in the immediate vicinity of unwanted trees, isolation from their roots of the feeding zone of rhododendrons with roofing material, polyethylene or other materials should be provided. For rhododendrons, a place on the north side of the building is suitable, where the sun shines on the plants in the early morning and afternoon.
When determining a planting site for growing and caring for a rhododendron, it is necessary to take care of protecting the bushes from the prevailing winds throughout the year, which is very important for the culture of rhododendrons. On open places plantings (especially evergreen species) in winter suffer not so much from frost as from the drying effect of the wind. The exception is some deciduous rhododendrons: Japanese, yellow, Kamchatka, which grow well in open sunny areas. Landings near the corners of buildings, where there are strong drafts, as well as in free spaces between buildings, are especially undesirable. Rhododendrons are a moisture-loving culture, they require soil and atmospheric moisture, especially during the period of budding and flowering.
Only species and varieties with reliable winter hardiness are suitable for planting in the middle lane.
When choosing a place for planting a rhododendron, you should provide for its protection from the direct midday sun, especially in early spring, when the evergreen foliage is already in full swing, including intensively evaporating moisture, and the roots have not yet woken up and do not replenish moisture. This leads to dehydration of the plant, and this is primarily manifested on the leaves. Under optimal lighting, the leaves of rhododendrons are leathery, bright green, glossy. If they become dull, dull, the midrib becomes yellowish, and appear at the edges of the leaves brown spots, then this is a signal that the lighting is too strong, causing leaf burns.
To avoid this, the planting site must be chosen so that the diffused shadow of another tree, for example, thuja or, falls on the rhododendrons from the south. It is best if the plants are illuminated by the morning and evening sun, but not by midday. I must say that rhododendrons generally like to grow under the canopy of a pine forest (but not a spruce one!). Rhododendrons should be planted 1.5–2 m from the tree trunk on the north side. A tree that protects the rhododendron from the sun should be chosen with a deep root system, and it does not have to be pine at all. Oak is fine, or even. But the spruce is not suitable because it has a superficial root system, and since the root system of the rhododendron is shallow (only 15–20 cm), the spruce will greatly oppress it. For the same reason, maple, linden, poplar, elm, birch are not suitable.
Evergreen rhododendrons do not like drafts and at the same time do not like stagnant air, so they should not be planted at the corners of buildings.
In addition, protection from northerly and northeasterly winds should be provided by planting curtain plants or using buildings. In winter, strong northerly and northeasterly winds in severe frosts increase transpiration (evaporation of moisture from the leaves), and the leaves dry out.
There are dwarf species of evergreen rhododendrons. To save them from the spring sunburn, it is enough to cover them with snow to a height of 30–40 cm. Tall shrubs (and rhododendrons generally reach a height of 1.5–2.5 m) can be covered with lutrasil or spunbond in several layers, or use an old sheet for this.
Deciduous and semi-deciduous rhododendrons, unlike evergreens, on the contrary, prefer a sunny location.
In addition, they need a rocky substrate, which is natural, since the plants come from the mountains. Drainage is also necessary, since these plants do not tolerate stagnant water at all, and therefore they should be planted on a hillock or an artificial elevation.
As shown in the photo, for planting and caring for a rhododendron, the soil must be prepared to a depth of 30-40 cm, that is, to double the height of the root ball:
The diameter of the planting pit is also enough to make about 30–40 cm. The pit should be filled with moisture and air permeable soil, which is the easiest to use peat, you can bring coniferous litter from a pine forest or sphagnum moss from a cranberry swamp, or heather soil. Any of these materials are diluted with soil removed from the planting pit in a 1: 1 ratio. If you made a bulk elevation, then on a layer of pebbles or granite gravel, pour a hill about 50 cm high from a mixture of peat, sand and garden soil in a ratio of 3: 1: 2. Rhododendrons grow exclusively on acidic soils (pH 4.5–5), therefore, absolutely no ash, chalk or lime, or dolomite should be applied under them. With insufficiently acidic soil, chlorosis begins in rhododendrons (leaves from green and shiny become yellow-green with pale yellow veins). This is due to the fact that the formation of chlorophyll in the leaves is suspended due to the fact that magnesium and iron are in compounds inaccessible to plants and are not absorbed by them.
Planting and caring for rhododendron in the open field, feeding bushes
When planting, the root collar is left just above the soil level. The soil around the root collar must be carefully compacted. Plants are watered abundantly, the soil is mulched with peat, or finely chopped bark, or fallen needles of pine needles, or sawdust with a layer of 5–6 cm. and embedded at a shallow depth. In addition, mineral fertilizers are applied in dry form: 1 tbsp. spoon of ammonium sulfate, superphosphate, potassium sulfate. All fertilizers are mixed with bedding.
Planting and caring for rhododendrons in the open field can be carried out on a specially prepared high slide, since they absolutely do not tolerate soil with an alkaline reaction. But in the open field it is difficult to maintain a constant acidic environment. You can avoid this by building a special garden bed. To do this, from the site of the required area, land is selected to a depth of 40 cm, then a drainage layer of large pebbles, rubble is poured onto the bottom, broken brick a layer of at least 15 cm. Then an acidic soil is poured onto the drainage with a layer of 25 cm, which consists of a mixture of peat, crushed bark, semi-rotten needles, pine needles. Mineral fertilizers are scattered on top - 1 m2 for 1 tbsp. spoon of ammonium or urea sulfate, potassium sulfate and "Intermag" for flowers and ornamental crops. All this is mixed, leveled, watered and planted. Thus, the roots of plants will constantly be in an acidic environment, and rhododendron plants will grow and bloom successfully.
The first feeding of rhododendrons is carried out at the beginning of May: 1 tbsp is diluted in 10 liters of water. spoon of urea and potassium sulfate, spending 3 liters of solution per 1 bush.
The second top dressing is carried out at the end of May: 1 tbsp of water is diluted with 10 liters of water. spoon of "Potassium humate" for garden flowers and potassium sulfate, spending 3-5 liters per bush.
The third feeding is carried out after the flowering of the plant: dilute 1 tbsp per 10 liters of water. spoon of potassium sulfate and superphosphate.
You won't have to weed, because mulch and increased soil acidity will prevent them from germinating. They have practically no pests, no diseases either. All that remains is watering, and here it is necessary to observe the measure.
Planting rhododendron flowers can be carried out with individual plants, but so that they are not covered by other perennials or shrubs, all the more you should not plant such crops that need a different soil acidity. But it is better to plant them as a whole group in one place, picking up the plants so that the flowering passes from one to another. Then the blooming corner will delight you for about two to three months, moreover, with such a planting, care and shelter is much easier.
Rhododendrons surrounded by stones look beautiful, they love granite stones. Among the stones and rhododendrons, you can plant a recumbent or undersized erika as a ground cover plant. Conifers are also suitable, but not all. Spruce, for example, is not good, but pine is another matter. Pine, especially dwarf, mountain pine (it should be borne in mind that it grows in breadth and, if improperly planted, will displace the rhododendron), junipers, not too tall thujas (by the way, all types of thuja can be cut), any ferns, especially the German ostrich is beautiful ( which, by the way, also quickly captures the territory, and therefore its offspring must be ripped out in time), hydrangeas of all kinds. Since rhododendrons and azaleas belong to the heather family, all other members of this family can also be included in the environment of rhododendrons: these are not only eriks, common heather, gaulteria, but also blueberries, lingonberries, podbele.
How to care for rhododendron in the garden and how to protect from disease (with video)
Caring for rhododendrons, it is worth remembering that all these plants are moisture-loving, prefer partial shade and grow well only on acidic soil. Ash and any manure (with the exception of the mullein), as well as feeding the plants with them, cannot be brought under them - destroy them immediately and forever.
In the North-West, as a rule, with a good layer (10 cm) of mulch, abundant watering of rhododendrons is not required, with the exception of the flowering period, when they should be watered heartily (10 liters under a bush), so that the root ball is completely saturated with water, then the soil should always be moist at a depth of 20-30 cm. Before flowering, only in dry and hot weather should be done periodically spraying with slightly acidified water.
Ekoberin acts very well on rhododendrons, both in case of freezing and sunburn. This preparation together with the "Healthy Garden" preparation should be prophylactically sprayed on rhododendrons, both deciduous and evergreen, in the fall before the shelter and in the spring immediately after the shelter is removed. To prepare the solution, it is enough to dissolve two or three grains of each in one liter of water.
If a burn or freezing does occur, then the dose of "Ekoberin" should be doubled or even tripled and the spraying will have to be repeated 3-4 times a week.
Plants are not susceptible to common diseases that other plants suffer from. The only disease of rhododendron is root ball rot as a result of prolonged waterlogging of the soil or damage from frost or sun.
Of the pests, only the beetle beetle is dangerous, which, feeding at night, hides in the soil during the day. It eats buds, buds, flowers and young shoots. To combat diseases and pests of rhododendrons in the evening, plants should be sprayed with a biological product "Fitoverm" (or "IskraBio") twice 2-3 weeks after the buds appear. The soil under the plants can be watered with karbofos.
In the process of caring for rhododendrons, do not forget to plant seeds for them, for this, after flowering, carefully break off the wilted flowers.
The video "Caring for rhododendron" shows the main agricultural techniques:
Preparing rhododendron for winter: how to cover a bush
To prepare rhododendrons for winter, young bushes with flower buds are easiest to bend to the ground. Large plants, both deciduous and evergreen, can be covered with spruce branches or white spanbond in several layers.
Before you cover the rhododendron for the winter, you must first install arcs above them so that the material does not come into contact with the plants. At the same time, such a shelter will protect the rhododendrons from sunburn. To protect the root system from freezing, cover the soil under the plants with a large layer (12-15 cm) of oak leaves or pine needles.
Do not rush to remove the shelter in the spring while there is a possibility of sunburn (March, April).
Propagation of rhododendron by seeds and layering
Reproduction of rhododendrons is carried out by seeds and layering. Cuttings are usually used in nurseries.
All wild species can be propagated by seeds. For this it is necessary to collect seed pods in September – October. The optimal harvest time is when the top of the pod has turned brown and the rest is still green. The boxes should be dried, the seeds should be poured out of them and stored in paper bags on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator. Seeds are sown in March in a shallow container (7 cm high) in a 3: 1 mixture of peat and sand. Since rhododendron seeds are small and they need light for germination, they are not buried in the soil, but sown superficially. It is best to sow them on snow, placed on top of the soil with a layer of about 1 cm. Then the container must be covered with a film (it is more convenient to use food, as it sticks to the edges of the container). After that, the containers must be placed on the windowsill.
Seedlings appear in about two weeks, if the seeds are fresh (collected last autumn), and if they lay for a year or two, then the seedlings may be delayed for a month. After emergence, the film should be removed. Watering the seedlings should be done with water from the melted cube food ice with a syringe, the needle of which must be inserted into the soil. Seedlings should be protected from direct sunlight. In the stage of 2 true leaves, the seedlings dive into separate flower pots with a capacity of 0.5 liters, 2-3 plants at a time. The soil is prepared from a mixture of peat and sand in a ratio of 3: 1. 2 weeks after picking, you can gradually fertilize the plants with physiologically acidic fertilizer (1 teaspoon of azofoska per 5 liters of water). The ready-made solution costs unlimited time. Or, in order to get rid of additional fertilizing, immediately add half a teaspoon of the powder fraction of the "AVA" fertilizer to the pot with soil and mix well.
In the spring, after the end of the frost, the pots can be dug into the ground on the site in a place that is illuminated by the sun only in the morning or evening. It is necessary to monitor the soil moisture in the pots and water the plant in a timely manner. For the first two years, pots with plants must be brought home and kept in a cool place, very moderately watered with water from melted food ice. In subsequent years, young rhododendrons can be left to winter in the open field directly in dug pots, but it is imperative that they be covered with spruce branches or covered with dry leaves (preferably oak, but apple can also be covered), or covered with several layers of lutrasil fixed on low arcs.
Reproduction by layering significantly accelerates the start of flowering. For layering, the lowest and longest flexible shoot with two-year-old wood is used. In the spring, a shallow incision of the bark with a length of 4 cm should be made along the lower part of the stem, all the leaves should be removed from the shoot and the shoot should be laid in a ditch 5 cm deep, covered with acidic, loose and moist soil. This place should always be humid, for this it can be covered with sphagnum moss from above. There is one nuance: the end of the shoot is tied to a peg, it should stick out vertically above the soil level by 12 cm. Rooting lasts 2-3 years. It can then be separated from the mother plant and transplanted. This is best done in the spring of the third year.
Shaping and pruning rhododendron
At a young age, such removal contributes to the formation of new shoots and branches, in the future, during this operation, the plant forms more growing buds and feels better, vegetation begins faster in spring.
Pruning rhododendrons should be carried out to give the bush a certain shape and remove old, damaged, dried and diseased branches. When pruning, it should be remembered that only individual branches of the rhododendron are shortened. Heavy pruning noticeably retards plant growth and first flowering. If it becomes necessary to prune old and out of shape bushes, it is best to do this in mid-spring (end of April). It is not recommended to break out the faded flowers of old branches.
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Once very popular under the name of room nettles, and then forgotten by everyone, coleus today are one of the brightest garden and indoor plants. They are not in vain considered stars of the first magnitude for those who are looking primarily for non-standard colors. Easy to grow, but not so undemanding to suit everyone, Coleus require constant monitoring. But if you take care of them, the bushes of velvety unique leaves will easily outshine any competitor.
Salmon ridge baked in Provencal herbs is a "supplier" of tasty pieces of fish pulp for light salad with fresh leaves of wild garlic. Champignons are lightly fried in olive oiland then sprinkled with apple cider vinegar. These mushrooms are tastier than regular pickled mushrooms and are better for baked fish. Ramson and fresh dill get along well in one salad, emphasizing the aroma of each other. The garlic pungency of wild garlic will permeate both salmon pulp and mushroom pieces.
A coniferous tree or shrub on the site is always great, and many conifers are even better. Emerald needles of various shades decorate the garden at any time of the year, and phytoncides and essential oils secreted by plants not only flavor, but also make the air cleaner. As a rule, most of the zoned adult conifers are considered very unpretentious trees and shrubs. But young seedlings are much more capricious and require competent care and attention.
Sakura is most often associated with Japan and its culture. Picnics under the shade of flowering trees have long become an integral part of the welcome of spring in the Country. rising sun... Financial and academic year here it starts from April 1, when the magnificent cherry blossoms bloom. Therefore, many significant moments in the life of the Japanese are marked by their blossoming. But sakura grows well in cooler regions - certain species can be successfully grown even in Siberia.
I am very interested in analyzing how the tastes and addictions of people to certain foods have changed over the centuries. What was once considered tasty and was an object of trade lost its value over time and, conversely, new fruit crops conquered their markets. Quince has been cultivated for over 4 thousand years! And even in the 1st century BC. e. about 6 varieties of quince were known and even then methods of its reproduction and cultivation were described.
Delight your family and make themed Easter Eggs Curd Cookies! Your kids will be happy to take part in the process - they will sift the flour, combine all the necessary ingredients, knead the dough and cut out intricate figures. Then they will watch with admiration how the pieces of dough turn into real Easter eggs, and then they will eat them with the same enthusiasm with milk or tea. How to make such an original cookie for Easter, read our step-by-step recipe!
Among tuberous crops, there are not so many decorative deciduous pets. And Caladium is a true star among the variegated inhabitants of interiors. Not everyone can decide to start a Caladium. This plant is demanding, and first of all - to care. But still, rumors about the extraordinary capriciousness of the Caladiums never justify. Care and attention will help you avoid any difficulty in growing caladiums. And a plant can almost always forgive small mistakes.
We have prepared a hearty, incredibly appetizing and simply elementary dish for you today. This gravy is one hundred percent universal, as it goes with every side dish: vegetables, pasta, or anything. Sauce with chicken and mushrooms will save you in moments when there is no time or you don't want to think too much about what to cook. Grab your favorite side dish (you can do this ahead of time to keep everything hot), add the gravy and lunch is ready! A real lifesaver.
Among the many different varieties of these most popular vegetables, we will tell you about three that are distinguished by excellent taste and relatively unpretentious growing conditions. Characteristics of the varieties of eggplants "Almaz", "Black handsome" and "Valentina". All eggplants are medium-firm. For Almaz it is greenish, while for the other two it is yellowish-white. They are united by good germination and excellent productivity, but in different time... Skin color and shape are different for everyone.