You must carry out these 3 treatments on rhododendrons in autumn. This is the basis for them to bloom in spring
Contrary to appearances, in autumn they do not die at all in the garden. In fact, it’s just the opposite. It is now that you have to take care of the bushes and perennial plants. Proper care in autumn will make the spring plants welcome in good condition and have the strength to grow rapid growth and flowering.
Rhododendrons are one of the most beautiful decorative shrubs that can be found in Polish gardens. Most varieties of rhododendrons bloom in early spring and make the garden cover with colorful flowers in April. In autumn, it is very important to properly prepare rhododendrons for the winter. Thanks to this, the bushes will better endure negative temperatures and winter weather. Neglect during this period may result in the weakness of plants, increased susceptibility to diseases and freezing, and consequently – weaker flowering or even loss of the bush. Therefore, autumn care treatments are extremely important for health and beautiful rhododendrons.
Autumn care of rhododendrons. Take care of hydration
In autumn, you can’t forget about watering. Especially when no rain is announced in the forecast for several days. Rhododendrons, as evergreen plants with large leaves, transfer water even in winter, so before the arrival of the frosts of the soil around the bushes it should be well moisturized. Intensive watering in late autumn will help the plant accumulate water reserves, which will increase its resistance to winter physiological dryness, manifested by the browning and falling of the leaves. However, excessive watering should be avoided, which can lead to rotting roots.
Autumn care of rhododendrons. Protect against diseases
Not everyone is aware that in the garden you should take care of cleanliness. In the autumn season, it is very important to regularly remove fallen leaves and rotten fruit residue. This prevents the spread of fungal diseases and pests that could winter in these remains and attack the shrubs in spring. In addition, the removal of fallen leaves from under the bush improves air circulation around the lower parts of the plant, which also reduces the risk of fungal infections.
Autumn care of rhododendrons. Mulching is the basis
As soon as the frost appears, scatter the pine bark, peat or compost mixed with cones around the roots. Autumn mulching helps maintain constant soil moisture, limiting both drying and excessive soaking. It also protects the root system against rapid temperature changes and freezing during frosts and overheating during warmer days.
When should the rhododendron fertilize?
It should take place in early spring. The best date is the end of March or the beginning of April. If you do it in the wrong time, the bush may have disturbed development. Early spring begins the active growth of many plants. This is the best date for fertilizing rhododendron before buds appear on it. In spring, plants need nutrients that will ensure their proper development. At this time, it is recommended to use prolonged fertilizers. They gradually release nutrients to the soil, thanks to which the bushes have constant access to the vitamins and minerals they need. The second date of fertilization of the rhododendron is autumn. The recommended months are September or October. Autumn fertilization serves that the bush has the needed nutrients before winter comes. At this time, we focus on nutrients with potassium and phosphorus, which strengthen the root system and make the plant bare to endure frosts and low temperatures.
Home fertilization of rhododendrons. Coffee coffee grounds
In the case of. You will make it yourself at home, and it will work as well as you buy fertilizers. The rhododendron in my garden has been fertilized in this way for many years. Rhododendrons are shrubs like sour land. In their case, fertilizer from coffee grounds will work sensational. They provide the plant with a dose of nitrogen, magnesium and potassium. Such a mixture of conditioner and stimulates the growth of the rhododendron. Mix about 10 tablespoons of coffee coffee grounds with 5 liters of boiled water. Put the mixture for about hours. When the coffee grounds swell, it is a sign that the conditioner is the rhododendron is ready. Water the rhododendron once a week.
How to care for rhododendrons in spring?
. Naturally, they occur mainly in Asia, less often in America and Europe. They bloom at the turn of May and June, and their flowers delight every time. Rhododendron is a fairly demanding shrub. It is not difficult in cultivation but it needs specific conditions for growth and flowering. In the garden it is best to choose a calm, half -seasoned position for him. The shrub cannot be exposed to direct sunlight that can smoke its leaves. In addition, Rhododendron needs rich in humus, fertile and permeable soil. An important condition for growing rhododendron is sour soil. It grows best in the ground with a pH between 3.5 and 5.5. Like other bushes in the garden, rhododendrons need regular watering and fertilization. In early spring, they should be provided with the necessary nutrients, which strengthens the bush and stimulates growth and flowering processes.
