RHODODENDRONS

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 75, Issue 178, 30 July 1932, Page 17 (Supplement)

RHODODENDRONS

PLANTING DIRECTIONS. Rhododendrons are among the most popular, beautiful and attractive of evergreen flowering shrubs. Their lovely flowers are produced in large trusses which vary very much according to the species of the many gorgeous varieties and hybrids. “Pink Pearl” is a notable example, with its enormous lovely pink trusses of flowers. It is now superseded by later novelties. In Britain the rhododendron is more popular than ever. New hybrids and introductions have been certificated.

Rhododendrons require a deep moist soil and partial shade. A good system of affording shelter is to plant Japanese flowering cherries among them where the soil is not naturally deep and of a free nature, and where there is a clay subsoil or hard pan. Preparation of Holes. The ground for planting rhododendrons must be specially prepared by digging a fairly deep, wide hole. Throw out the stiff clay and place six or nine inches of medium scoria at the bottom and fill it with loamy soil, leaf rubbish and peat if procurable. Dry cow dung, broken up, and sand may be added. Efficient drainage is absolutely necessary. Rhododendrons are subject to the attacks of thrips and red spider, that give the leaves a silvery appearance on the upper sides and rust rod beneath. Spraying with a solution of white oil will kill these Insects. Use a strength of three level tablespoonsful to the gallon of water.