THE NEW YORK CHAPTER - THE AMERICAN RHODODENDRON SOCIETY - Planting and Cultural Suggestions

Sep 21, 2026

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A regional booklet from the New York Chapter of the American Rhododendron Society introduces rhododendrons and azaleas and explains why they thrive in northeastern U.S. climates. It provides practical, step-by-step guidance on successful cultivation, emphasizing acidic soil requirements (ideal pH range), soil texture, drainage, suitable planting sites with partial shade, wind protection, and correct planting timing. The text also covers mulching materials and depth to protect shallow roots and reduce frost effects.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryLifestyle

FormatPDF

Pages16

Reading Time25 min

AccessFree to download

Planting and Cultural Suggestions

Soil

Soil Texture

Planting Site

Planting

Mulching

Rhododenahonoandcoa o the.utheast President: Vice PresidentVice PresidentTreasurerRecording Secretary Corresponding Secretary Cover rhododendron by:Ray Porter Booklet drawings by: Robert G.Titus This booklet has been prepared by: # THE NEW YORK CHAPTER of # THE AMERICAN RHODODENDRON SOCIETY Henry A.Dumper15 The LochRoslyn Estates,N.Y.11576 Dorothy SchlaikjerGordon E.JonesBruno A.KaelinJulie Schuldes Evelyn Kaelin15 Woodville LaneSearingtown,N.Y.11507 When in bloom rhododendrons and azaleas are among the mostspectacularly beautiful of all woody plants for temperate climates.Therich foliage of the evergreens and the branching habit of the deciduousplants make them superior at all seasons. The northeastern section of the United States enjoys conditionssuited to the growing of great numbers of these aristocratic shrubs.Inthe milder portions of this region,including most of New Jersey,LongIsland,southern Westchester,and coastal New England to Massachusetts,hundreds of rhododendron and azalea species and hybrid varieties can begrown with ease.As we move farther north and inland the list of hardyplants narrows but still provides a wealth of beautiful varieties,many ofwhich are not widely known.Later in this booklet are lists of recom-mended plants for all areas. # PLANTING AND CULTURAL SUGGESTIONS Rhododendrons are not difficult plants to grow,and if properlyestablished will thrive with comparatively little care.They do,however,require certain specific conditions of soil for successful growth,andsome care in the selection of their location for maximum performance. SOIL. It is essential that the soil be of the acid type.Whilethe soil in this area is naturally acid,it has sometimes been made other-wise by the use of lime,or by the leaching of lime from masonry walls orfoundations into the soil at the base.If there is any doubt about theacidity of the soil,it should be tested(consult your county agent).Anacidity value of pH 5.0 to 5.5 is ideal.Soil acidity may be increased bythe application of agricultural sulphur or by applying Copperas(ferroussulphate),but aluminum sulphate,which is often recommended for thispurpose,should never be used as it can be extremely toxic to rhododendrons. SOIL TEXTURE. The soil must be of loose texture,wellaerated and high in organic matter.If the soil is too sandy,topsoil andorganic matter should be added.If too much clay is present,add sandand organic matter.Organic matter may be peat moss,leaf mold,orcompost.Peat moss is the most commonly used as it is readily available,easily handled,and lasts longest in the soil.Compost and leaf mold areoften not sufficiently acid,therefore add one cupful of sulphur per bushelto either of these materials. Although rhododendrons like plenty of water,the soil in whichthey are growing must be well drained.Standing in water for even shortperiods is extremely detrimental. PLANTING SITE. Generally speaking,azaleas and rhododen-drons do not like to be planted in full sun,but,on the other hand,neitherdo they thrive in dense shade.A light mottled shade for several hours atmidday is ideal.Tall trees,especially pines and oaks,with lower branchestrimmed to 15'or so above the ground provide excellent conditions.How-ever,planting rhododendrons under maples,elms,ashes,or trees withsimilar shallow competitive root systems should be avoided.When plantedagainst a house,east and north exposures are best.A south facing wall,particularly if painted white and unshaded by trees is often a heat trapand rhododendrons will not do well there.Azaleas and small leavedrhododendrons are much more tolerant of this condition. Wind protection by other plants is helpful and a natural wind-break of other evergreen materials adds to the beauty of planting.Strongwinter winds when the ground is frozen,combined with bright winter sun,is very detrimental.If a natural windbreak cannot be provided,temporaryfencing,a burlap screen,or covering small plants with evergre

FAQs

What soil conditions are ideal for growing rhododendrons successfully?

The soil must be an acid type. An acidity value of about pH 5.0 to 5.5 is ideal, and soil should be loose, well aerated, and high in organic matter.

How much sunlight and what planting location should be chosen?

Azaleas and rhododendrons generally do not like full sun, nor dense shade. A light mottled shade for several hours at midday is ideal, and east and north exposures are best near a house.

What is the purpose of mulching and what materials should be used?

Mulching helps keep shallow roots cool and moist, limits weeds, and reduces frost penetration. Suitable materials include oak leaves (or mixed leaves), pine needles, and wood chips, applied at recommended depths.

Sep 21, 2026

Upload by Eden