Information on Rhododendron Care?

Question

In the Spring I had a gardener plant rhodo and although I've bee watering it every few days the leaves are turning brown (It's September) and falling off. Does that mean the plant is dead and has to be replaced or should I keep watering and hope it revives next spring? Does it have a chance? Is there something else I should be doing???

Answer 1

Sounds like something has happened to cause it to regress.Over watering...over fertilizing...The good thing is..plants will shed their dying leaves as a way of rejuvenating itself,So the dropping of dead leaves is good as apposed to them hanging on the bush.You may be watering it to much, it should have recovered from transplant shock by now but if its being over watered it hasn't had a chance to adapt properly.When you feed them remember they like an acid soil so use azalea..camelia..rhododendron food. I would much rather see them dry out a little between watering then have wet feet 24/7.

Answer 2

You shouldn't water every other day -- depending on temperature and rain, it should be every 4 days if there is no rain. It is normal for their leaves to turn brown how, as they bloom in the spring and are heading toward their winter rest now. It's best to water for 15-20 minutes each time, but water less frequently, as this encourages root growth. Test the soil, it should be a little dry before you water again.