After flowering, we cannot forget about rhododendrons. We must properly take care of them if we want them to be in good condition in the next season. It is a necessary procedure to announce, without which there is no question of releasing flower buds. Not only removing faded inflorescences matters. Check all the treatments that must be performed when the specimen has faded.
After flowering It is necessary to remove faded inflorescences. If we do not do this, the specimen will use its energy for seed production. This process is exhausting for the plant, so it will not have the strength to release buds in the next season.
Removing faded inflorescences means that the plant allocates energy not to produce seeds, but to the development of leaves and flowers. That is why the rhododendron will develop much better in the next season.
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The faded blurring inflorescences carefully break with your fingerswatching for light green side shoots – they will spend flower buds next year.
Under no circumstances do we use scissors or pruning shears. We can then accidentally damage the buds under the faded flower.
In general, pruning this plant is not recommended. Unlike other shrubs, flower buds in the rhododendron may not be renewed, which will result in a complete lack of flowering in the next season.
We cut dead and sick branches only when it is really necessary. We do it very carefully.
We carry out the announcement on a dry day, morning or afternoon. Rain and moisture could cause fungal diseases.
After flowering, we must water the rhododendron. During drought, irrigation should be regular and abundant. This plant has a shallow root system, which is why it needs water.
Fertilization is also important. We use a specialized fertilizer for rhododendrons and azaleas, rich in phosphorus and potassium with a small amount of nitrogen.
We also recommend mulching the ground of these plants, preferably with pine bark. Thanks to this material, the soil will be acidified and will be protected against moisture loss. In addition, it will protect the roots against overheating in summer and winter freezing.
