5 Reasons Why Rhododendron Not Growing

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Let’s face it, rhododendron not growing is quite a common issue we’ll encounter with these kinds of plant.

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Instead of withering like most plants, Rhododendron will react to certain stress by refusing to grow
Instead of withering like most plants, Rhododendron will react to certain stress by refusing to grow

Well, today I’m here to reveal the reasons behind this common issue and provide you with the solutions you need to make your rhododendrons flourish.

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Rhododendron Not Growing: 5 Common Reasons

#1 Planted Too Low

Reason 1 - Wrong Planting Depth: its root ball should not be covered in soil, otherwise it won’t be able to breathe
Reason 1 – Wrong Planting Depth: its root ball should not be covered in soil, otherwise it won’t be able to breathe

Rhododendrons have a bit of a quirk when it comes to their root ball.

Long story short, avoid burying the top of the root ball under soil.

If a Rhododendron finds itself planted too deep, its delicate roots won’t be too thrilled – they’ll kick the bucket, and your plant might just throw a shrinking fit.

To keep things happy and healthy, make sure that you leave that root ball sticking out about an inch above ground. 

#2 Root Bound

Reason 2 - Root Bound: the roots may have been crumpled tightly together when you replant it in the soil
Reason 2 – Root Bound: the roots may have been crumpled tightly together when you replant it in the soil

An overtaxed root system is a surefire way to throw your plant’s well-being off balance.

Even if you believe you’re liberating your Rhododendrons into the open garden rather than a pot, exercise caution.

There are times when you might transplant it into the soil, but the roots remain tightly knotted, unable to stretch out.

Pause and reflect: did you just yank the plant out of its pot upon arrival, dumping the entire root block into its new home?

If that rings a bell, you know the next move to make (dig it up and replant it!)

#3 Soil Acidity

Reason 3 - Not Enough Soil Acidity: Rhododendron thrives in soil with pH level ranging between 4.5 and 6
Reason 3 – Not Enough Soil Acidity: Rhododendron thrives in soil with pH level ranging between 4.5 and 6

Rhododendrons have a bit of a taste for acidity, thanks to their natural habitat on peaty soils in the Himalaya, Japan, and China.

So, if your soil lacks that acidity touch, it’s like waving goodbye to the optimal environment for your plant to flourish.

Ideally, your rhododendron’s soil acidity should hover between pH 4.5-6.

Just to give you a benchmark, neutral soil clocks in at pH 7, and anything higher than that ventures into the alkaline zone.

If your soil seems to be losing its color and not quite hitting that acidity sweet spot (pale and grayish), it’s time for some action.

Grab yourself some soil garden sulfur or acid-loving plant fertilizer, and sprinkle it around as per the directions.

Alternatively, you can go for a mulch mix featuring fir and pine bark. If you’ve got them on hand, toss in some pine and spruce needles for an extra acidic boost. 

#4 Wrong Sunbathing Routine

Reason 4 - Too Much Shade or Not Enough: Rhododendrons need shade but also sunlight. Keeping them under a tall tree is a good idea
Reason 4 – Too Much Shade or Not Enough: Rhododendrons need shade but also sunlight. Keeping them under a tall tree is a good idea

Rhododendrons are a bit picky when it comes to sunlight – they’re not fans of too much or too little.

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They thrive in semi-shaded spots, steering clear of excessive direct sunlight, especially during winter.

Too much sun can be a bit much for them, causing the leaves to dry out, turn brown, and eventually take a tumble.

For a perfect spot, consider planting them in the dappled shade beneath towering trees like pines and oaks.

If you’re eyeing a specific location, a west-, east-, or north-facing bed against a foundation wall works like a charm, as long as it’s shielded from the relentless wind.

Give your Rhododendrons the Goldilocks treatment – not too much sun, not too little, but just the right amount of shade to keep them happy and thriving.

#5 Dampened Soil

Reason 5 - Dampened Soil: Like most plants, Rhododendron won’t be able to thrive in soil without proper drainage capability
Reason 5 – Dampened Soil: Like most plants, Rhododendron won’t be able to thrive in soil without proper drainage capability

Just like many plants, Rhododendrons are all about that well-drained soil.

They like their roots to have a decent sip of water, but they’re equally picky about getting a good oxygen fix.

Without this perfect combo, they start tapping the brakes on growth, and well, the rest isn’t pretty – eventual decline and demise.

If your soil is being a bit stubborn or leaning towards the alkaline side, here’s a trick: go for raised beds.

Fill them up with a delightful blend of topsoil and ground bark, and you’ll have your Rhododendrons in a happy place, ready to thrive. 

General Rhododendron Care and Growing Advice:

Under the right care and attention, Rhododendrons can sprout up by 30 cm each year.

Give it the love it deserves, and watching it thrive becomes a breeze.

And, of course, it all kicks off with a solid grasp of the fundamentals of care.

For optimal care condition: make sure you don’t overfeed the plant, which needs fertilizer twice a year only
For optimal care condition: make sure you don’t overfeed the plant, which needs fertilizer twice a year only

Fertilizer

Opt for a fertilizer enriched with magnesium or iron for your rhododendrons.

Feed these established beauties twice a year—once in early spring and then again 12 to 16 weeks later.

Follow the American Rhododendron Society‘s advice: use only the recommended fertilizer amounts for rhododendrons and azaleas.

They don’t need as much as other plants. Too much fertilizer can harm roots and leaves, and some rhododendron types can’t handle it—they might even die.

Water

It needs moist soil, but would certainly detest waterlogging. Water deeply but not too often— once or twice a week once your plants are settled
It needs moist soil, but would certainly detest waterlogging. Water deeply but not too often— once or twice a week once your plants are settled

Given their shallow roots, rhododendrons enjoy ample oxygen but are prone to stress if the soil dries out.

Before reaching for the watering can, peel back some mulch and feel the soil.

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Water when it’s dry to the touch, yet the underlying soil remains moist.

Adjust watering frequency during hot, dry spells, and ease up in cooler, wetter periods.

When watering, target the soil around the plant, extending as far as its branches reach.

Ensure a deep, thorough soak, aiming for approximately 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall.

If possible, employ drip irrigation to sidestep runoff and deter fungal diseases that thrive on wet leaves.

Winter Care

Winter care is also important. Note that most variants dwell in US hardiness zone 4 to 8
Winter care is also important. Note that most variants dwell in US hardiness zone 4 to 8

Most rhododendrons thrive in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8.

The Northern Lights variety, exceptionally cold-hardy, can endure temperatures in zone 4 and potentially even zone 3.

Some rhododendrons and deciduous azaleas boast survival down to -35°F (-37°C).

However, note that it’s normal for leaf drooping and curling to occur around 32°F (0°C).

Be cautious, though—roots are susceptible to freezing and dying below 20°F (-7°C), with the minimum temperatures for root growth believed to be between 32 and 41°F (0 and 5°C).

So, mind the winter chill to keep your rhododendrons thriving.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, if you’ve ever found your Rhododendron not growing, fear not.

Today, we’ve unraveled the mysteries behind this common woe and armed you with the solutions needed to turn your rhododendrons into thriving wonders.

Have fun watching your Rhododendron thrive!
Have fun watching your Rhododendron thrive!

Remember these key points:

Planting Depth: Ensure your rhododendron’s root ball peeks about an inch above ground to avoid unhappy, shrinking plants.

Root Health: Watch out for root-bound situations – a simple check during transplantation can save your rhododendron from a tangled mess.

Soil Acidity: Rhododendrons crave acidic soil. If your soil lacks that zesty touch, grab some soil garden sulfur or acid-loving plant fertilizer, or go for a mulch mix with fir and pine bark.

Sunlight Savvy: Place your rhododendrons in semi-shaded spots, avoiding excessive sunlight. Think of it as giving them the Goldilocks treatment – not too much, not too little.

Well-Drained Roots: Rhododendrons love a well-drained environment. If your soil is stubborn or tilting towards alkalinity, opt for raised beds with a mix of topsoil and ground bark.

Armed with these insights, your rhododendrons are primed for a future of flourishing growth. Happy gardening!

Source: https://thelittle.garden
Category: Gardening