Rhododendron 'Besse Howells'

Rhododendrons are woodland plants. They prefer part shade and some shelter from elements like wind and snow. When planting, create more acidic soil (which rhododendrons like), by adding peatmoss or coco-fibre into the planting area. Do not use a bonemeal fertilizer as it sweetens the soil (makes it less acidic). Instead use a liquid transplant fertilizer. Being very shallow rooted, avoid cultivating or planting too near them. A healthy yearly application of mulch around the plant will reduce weeds and moderate temperatures. Always keep mulch a few inches from the trunk of the plant. Fertilize rhododendrons with our GardenPro Rhodo and Azalea food in the early spring, before growth starts. Repeat the fertilizing after the plant has finished flowering. This specially formulated plant food is perfect for all acidic-soil loving plants including camellias, blueberries, heathers, azaleas and rhododendrons. If necessary, prune rhododendrons after they have finished flowering. Deadhead (remove) spent flowers. This keeps the plant tidy and redirects its energy away from setting seed and back into growth. The major pest of rhododendrons is the root weevil. Symptoms include notches in the leaves. Control them using beneficial nematodes available from Art’s