Rhododendrons are loved by gardeners for their outstanding and varied flower colours, and their usually evergreen leaves. Sizes range from very dwarf to tree-like. They have few pests or diseases, are deer resistant, and are perfect plants for the Vancouver Island climate and soil type.
Do I have an Appropriate Growing Site?
- Dappled shade is best but need some sun to bloom well.
- If no shade, then morning sun is best.
- Well-drained, porous, fertile, acid soil.
- Choose a non-windy location.
What Type of Rhodo am I Looking For?
- Size: To fit the intended space with room to grow.
- Fragrance: Some are fragrant but many are not.
- Colour: Everything from white to yellow to pink to peach to orange to purple to deep red.
- Leaves: Many shapes and sizes; some variegated; some with beautiful indumentum on the underside.
How do I Choose a Healthy Rhodo?
- Healthy green leaves with no spots or yellow veining.
- Roots NOT growing out the bottom of the pot.
- Root ball NOT a solid, rock-hard mass of roots.
Questions about growing or choosing Rhododendrons? Email: GardeningAdvice.MilnerGardens@shaw.ca. Vancouver Island Master Gardeners will reply to your queries. Sending photos would be helpful if your plant has issues.
Resources
- Greer, H.E. 1996. 3rd Ed. Greer’s Guide to Available Rhododendron. Offshoot Publishing. Available through Rhododendron Society Chapters on Vancouver Island or in the Gardening section in used bookstores.
- Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden. https://rhodygarden.org/
- American Rhododendron Society. https://www.rhododendron.org/
- Photo credits: Chris Southwick, from her garden of over 300 rhododendrons
Vancouver Island Master Gardeners
Vancouver Island Master Gardeners are made up of local volunteers who educate the gardening public with current, science-based, and environmentally responsible horticultural information. As a chapter of the Master Gardeners Association of BC (MGABC), our program and priorities shape healthy communities and a healthy planet.