RHODODENDRONS

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIX, Issue 21278, 3 September 1932, Page 8 (Supplement)

RHODODENDRONS

ATTRACTIVE SHRUBS .Rhododendrons comprise a large and Increasingly popular genus of plants that may justly bo classed among the most beautiful and attractive of evergreen flowering shrubs. A few attain the size of small trees..Their foliage is at all times attractive. The flowers, which vary in size •with the species or variety, are borne in the greatest profusion when the plants are in a clean, healthy condition. A splendid bash of an early-flowering variety, Sir Robert JPeel may be seen in full flower in the Auckland Domain garlate years numerous hybrids lmve been raised and certificated The variety Pink Pearl that caused a sensation amonjf rhododendron fanciers, has already been superseded by some of the latest productions. Importations from China and 'he Himalayas hare added some magnificent new and interesting species. In Britain rhododendron culture has received a, great, impetus. METHODS OP CULTURE

The hardy varieties of rhododendrons •ncceed under various conditions of soil and situation, but the presence of lime in the soil is fatal to the well-doing of most, of them. In our climate a fairly moist loamy soil and partial shade is desirable. To provide partial shade during the summer a, good system is to plant Japanese flowering cherries at suitable intervals among them. The foliage of the cherries is sufficient to shelter tliam from the sun, and they are bare of leaves throughout the winter and the branches are open.

CULTURE AND DRAINAGE la uncongenial soil, "with a stiff clay snbsojl or hard pan, special preparation of the holes and nnderdraining is necessary to prevent surplus moisture accumulating at the bottom of the holes. Prepare holes by digging them -wide and deep, throwing out the clay soil and filling in with prepared-compost of turfy loam leaf rubbish and decayed peat and coarse sand. After first placing at the bottom of each hole from nine inches to one foot of rubble or medium scoria. Some well decayed cow manure may be mixed with the soil in the holes. This, although not according to old treatment, not to give rhododendrons manure, is most beneficial. 1 PESTS AND REMEDIES „ Rhododendrons are liable to the attacks of red spider and tiirips that give the rnstv appearance beneath and a silvery colour on the upper sides resembling silver blight. This invariably occurs vhere soil and other conditions are un- • favourable and when the plants are suffering from dry weather at the roots. The foliage may be cleansed from these insects by spraying them with a solution of white oil of b strength of from two to three level ,/tablespoonsfulls to the gallon of water. THE TIME TO PLANT P.hododendrons may be successfully and safely transplanted over a long season by digging them up carefully. The fibrous roots hold the soil together and enable them to be replanted even if they are in flower drith perfect safety. The present is a most suitable time to plant the different varieties. % DECIDUOUS MAGNOLIAS BEAUTY OF' FOLIAGE y Magnolia conspicua, the Yulan tree, is Bow in full bloom. This is one of the earliest and.- most beautiful of spring? flowering trees. Its large white suffused purple fragrant tulip-like blossoms are produced in the utmost profusion, covering the whole tree before the leaves appear, and create a most conspicuous and picturesque appearance. There are several fine specimens in Auckland gardens. This species is a native of China and is much the best of the tail-growing varieties. Magnolia soulangeana is a similar variety ■with pinkish flowers stained purple out side.

Magnolia obovata, another deciduous Epccies. / produces jarge tulip-like purple flowers. It i*; of shrubby habit and is a good companion to the preceding, flowering at the same time and equally hard)'. Magnolia stellata, previously described, is now in full flower. This is one of the beat, of winter-flowering shrubs, suitable for both and small gardens and much prized for floral work. Magnolia acuminata. the cucumber tree of North America, is a huge vigorous hardy tree that attains a height of over 50ft. EVERGREEN MAGNOLIAS Magnolia grandifiora, a handsome, Stately evergreen tree, blanching and forming a fine pyramidal head and bearing larg£ white sweet-scented flowers is very hardy. There are several varieties differing from the type in the shape of the leaves and the colour of the flowers. Magnolia fuscata, the port wine magnolia, is a dwarf compact-growing evergreen shrubby species with highly fragrant fruity scefhted flowers. It is specially adapted for the mixed border where assorted shrubs are grown Magnolias are of easy cultivation and cannot oe tcwi | highly recommended. All the vatienc:: Bay be planted now.