Dwarf Rhododendron - Rhododendron impeditum

Plant Rhododendron impeditum in a sunny or semi-shaded position, protected from cold and drying winds, in a moist, humus-rich and light soil with an acidic tendency. Like all plants that prefer acidic soil, it does not tolerate alkaline soils or heavy soils saturated with water in winter. Dig a hole three times larger than the pot. Soak the root ball in non-alkaline water and plant the bush at the level of the collar, in a mixture composed of leaf compost, gravel or pumice, and loam. Water generously and keep the soil moist in summer. Azaleas and Rhododendrons have a shallow root system. Therefore, they are sensitive to long periods of drought. This is why it is recommended to enrich the soil with humus and provide abundant watering during dry periods. Additionally, this weak root system makes it necessary to lighten heavy soils with draining materials (gravel, pumice, clay pellets) at planting. Apply a mulch of shredded pine bark around the base of the bush every spring to maintain soil moisture and preserve an acidic pH. Maintenance involves only removing faded flowers in summer and pruning out dead branches. Azaleas and Rhododendrons can sometimes be attacked by weevils that eat the edges of leaves and rootlets, as well as by the famous "rhododendron caterpillar," which rarely causes significant damage. Yellowing of leaves (chlorosis) in Rhododendrons indicates poor assimilation of iron from the soil and can lead to premature death of the plant. While alkaline soil is often the cause, poorly drained soil or deep planting of the root ball can also explain the phenomenon.