We have many examples that the cultivation and breeding of rhododendrons is also possible in our climatic conditions. In the cultivation of these plants, the most important thing is to maintain optimal soil conditions. The substrate for the cultivation of rhododendrons must be loose.Therefore, clay soils should be improved with sand or compost, thanks to which it is permeable to water, which in the long run can be deadly for the roots.Peat substrate is optimal, because it has the structure that small roots need.
It is recommended to measure the pH value after each preparation of the soil (this is possible thanks to special tests for checking the pH of the soil).If the pH is greater than 5.5, the soil is not suitable for growing normal rhododendrons because it contains too much lime.In case of doubt, we advise you to buy varieties from the Inkarho group, which tolerate the calcareous substrate and, at a higher pH value, create a stronger root ball.
If, on the basis of the test, we find that the substrate has the correct reaction, the rhododendrons will not need too much care. In the rainless season, the bushes should be watered with rainwater or standing water from the tap - at the latest when they start to curl their leaves.
A special rhododendron fertilizer should be used for spring feeding.In order for the shrubs to bloom also next year, break off all the faded inflorescencesThanks to this, the rhododendrons will not waste energy on seed formation and will put all their energy into tying flower buds.
We prepare the ground for rhododendrons
In cultivation, we rarely have soils that meet the requirements of rhododendrons in all respects. For their cultivation, we use acidic soils, but rich in organic matter, releasing nutrients gradually and evenly. The feeding with mineral fertilizers is carried out carefully, in small doses. Before planting bushes, the substrate must be prepared in advance.Add high (acidic) peat, pine needles or composted pine bark and well-decomposed cattle manure to the soil dug up from the bottom.You can also add oak leaves. Cover the roots of the planted rhododendrons with the mixture.
The bottom should be about 50-60 cm deep. The acidic reaction of the soil and the abundance of organic substances, as well as mulching and watering, favor the development of symbiotic fungi coexisting with rhododendrons.Hyphae of fungi grow not only the roots, but also the tissues of the above-ground organs of plants: shoots, leaves and flowers, and the outer tissues of seeds. This phenomenon, called mycorrhiza, guarantees the proper growth and development of rhododendrons.
