Plant Rhododendrons so the top roots are not more than 1 inch below the soil surface. The hole, which is dug several inches larger than the rootball, is filled in with equal parts peatmoss, leafmold and loam. Shape a large basin in the soil around the plant and fill it with water several times to settle the soil. A temporary lath shade will provide a few hours of reduced sunlight each day for the young plant if no nearby trees are of sufficient size.
Protection from wind and cold is necessary when these broad-leaved evergreens are planted in exposed locations. Trees, shrubs or structural barriers on the side of prevailing winds will prevent much damage to foliage and flowers. Where winters are severe a wooden frame covered with heavy burlap will protect plants against temperature extremes. Pack straw or other insulating material about the branches before setting frame over the rhododendron.
Prune Rhododendrons when the last flowers are dead. Branches headed back immediately after flowering will produce shoots which bloom the next year. However, to insure a good floral display each spring, it is best to cut only one-third of the branches back each year. Water pruned plants heavily. Be sure to remove flower clusters as soon as they fade so that the dormant buds just below them on the stem (rather than developing seed pods) will receive the plant’s energy. Be careful not to damage these buds.
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