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Problem with Rhododendrons

michael.hyde2michael.hyde2 Posts: 3
in Problem solving
Hi there,
We have 3 Rhododendrons which flowered well this year and although we're not experts, we do water & feed them now & again. However, 2 out of 3 of them are really looking sorry for themselves. The first 'problem one' had most of it's leaves turn orange and fall off (see first 4 pics). The second 'problem one' has gone all 'droopy' and 'shrivelled' (see next 4 pics), but the 3rd plant seems relatively fine (last pic).  The only thing I've done different this year is I tried to prune them which I've never done before and wonder if I've done something wrong.  Any help appreciated much appreciated.  Many thanks Karen

Posts

  • amancalledgeorgeamancalledgeorge Posts: 2,736
    Those look really dry and the weeds are not helping. Unfortunately rhododendrons, even the smallest varieties, will perform better in the ground. So if you have the space do plant them in the ground in a semi shaded location. If you have to keep them in the pots make sure you renew some of the growing medium every year and feed them regularly. And take them off the sun ASAP. Can't imagine the pruning caused the damage, but it may have ruined their shape for the foreseeable. 
    To Plant a Garden is to Believe in Tomorrow
  • michael.hyde2michael.hyde2 Posts: 3
    Thank you very much George
  • amancalledgeorgeamancalledgeorge Posts: 2,736
    But don't give up on them, they're tough plants. 
    To Plant a Garden is to Believe in Tomorrow
  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 55,117
    edited September 2021
    Get them out of the sun. Don't feed them either.  :)
    Rehydrate them properly by putting them into a container of water until no bubbles are visible. If you can't do that, put them in a saucer or similar, pour a bucket of water in, and wait until it's all absorbed. 
    They need to be in the ground though. If you can't do that, you'll need much bigger containers for them if you want them to thrive. 
    They really aren't shrubs which do well in sun, unless they have the right soil and conditions, and even then, they won't like it for any length of time. The wall will also be reflecting a lot of heat. 
    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
  • michael.hyde2michael.hyde2 Posts: 3
    Lovely - thank you Fairygirl - getting them out of the sun seems to be a recurring theme - thank you both :-)
  • Nanny BeachNanny Beach Posts: 8,719
    They are Japanese woodland plants, really don't like much sun. I don't think you needed to prune then either. Get them in the shade,plenty of ideally rain water.If you don't water them now,no flowers next year.  Ericacious compost. I do have some in pots. I rarely feed,in spring I take any weeds out of the pot and topdress with Ericacious compost,but lots of water,! As you can see,plenty of fat flower buds for next spring
  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 55,117
    Soil in the pots though [neutral is fine] - not just compost if you're keeping them there long term. They also need good drainage.
    They like dampness, but they don't appreciate sitting in it all the time.  :)
    Some will cope reasonably well in pots, but most of them want to be big, so it's not ideal.

    The climate in the west of Scotland is perfect for rhododendrons. That's what you're trying to emulate.  Grey skies, cooler temps and regular rain  ;)

    This year has been anything but though, so even here - if they were in pots they'd need loads of watering and lots of shade.
    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
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