Rhododendron Culture with a Dutch Scuffle Hoe
Mark G. Konrad, M.D., Sewickley, PA.
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Since rhododendron are naturally fibrous and shallow rooted, cultivation is not recommended. The superficial scuffling of the mulch around them, however, can be quite beneficial. I found this out by accident in the attempt to control certain weeds which grow rampantly in the type of mulch I use. This is a base of oak leaves to which grass clippings are added during the course of a summer. The use of a riding mower with a rear mounted catcher attachment produces a large volume of grass during the growing season.
Scuffling allows for the mixing of the leaves, grass and a small amount of soil. Not only are the weeds controlled but the mulch becomes more pervious to water. The rhododendron take on a new luster and vigor which I attribute to a more rapid breakdown of the mulch along with increased aeration. Possibly, undesirable small animals are better controlled and an increased amount of food is noted for bird life. As a gentle, productive form of exercise scuffling offers an extra bonus. Scuffling the rhododendron family is by no means a panacea, but try it you might like it.