JARS v64n2 - Tips for Beginners: How to (accidentally) Kill Your Rhodies
Tips for Beginners: How to (accidentally) Kill Your Rhodies
Jerry Rock
Marysville, Washington
Reprinted from the Pilchuck Pollinator, January 2010I'm asked frequently about rhododendrons by folks who don't have a clue about planting and caring for rhodies. I hear "I planted it and it just died." Here is what generally happened:
• The rhody was planted below ground level.
• It was planted in a sump where drainage was poor.
• Added fertilizer right up to the trunk.
• Added thick, fine mulch of sawdust or bark right up to the trunk.
• Sprayed Roundup right up to the trunk.
• Weed-whacked right up to the trunk, oh, and hit the trunk.
• Weeded with the hoe right up to the trunk.
• Planted in hot sun, no shade of any kind.
