How to Plant Rhododendron Under Trees

If you want to add some color to your landscape and you have trees that provide ample shade, planting rhododendrons might just be the perfect solution. Rhododendrons are beautiful and easy-to-care-for plants that thrive well under trees. They provide a pop of color and some much-needed landscaping interest in areas that have become barren due to low light levels. But how do you go about planting rhododendron under trees? We’ve got you covered.

Step One: Prepare the Ground

The first step in successfully planting rhododendrons under trees is to prepare the ground. Unlike other plants, rhododendrons can be quite picky about their soil type. They require well-drained soil with a pH level between 4.5 and 6.0. That means you need to ensure that the soil under the tree is properly aerated, well-drained and has the right pH level before planting. You might need to add some organic matter, like compost, to the soil to improve its quality.

Step Two: Choose the Right Location

The next step is to choose the right location for your rhododendrons. Ideally, you want to plant them on the east or north side of a tree that offers ample shade. Rhododendrons prefer to be planted in areas that have partial or dappled shade. That’s because direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and prevent the plants from thriving.

Step Three: Prepare the Rhododendron Plant

The third step is to prepare your rhododendron plant before you transplant it. Remove the plant from its pot and check the roots. Make sure they are healthy and spread out. If they are too root-bound, prune them to encourage new growth. Once you have done that, plant the rhododendron in the hole you prepared earlier, making sure to cover the roots but not bury the crown of the plant. Water it well after planting.

Step Four: Mulch

The fourth step is to add a layer of mulch around the rhododendron plant. Mulch helps to retain moisture in the soil and keep the roots cool. Choose a nutrient-rich organic mulch like pine needles or bark and spread it around the plant. Be careful not to cover the crown of the plant as it might lead to rotting.

Step Five: Care for the Rhododendron Plant

The final step is to care for your rhododendron plant. Water it regularly, making sure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize it twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall, using a slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants like rhododendrons. Prune the plant regularly to maintain its shape and remove any dead or diseased branches.

With these five easy-to-follow steps, you can successfully plant rhododendrons under trees and add some beautiful color to your landscape without sacrificing your trees. Don't forget to choose the right rhododendron variety for your area and ensure that you water and fertilize your plant regularly to keep it healthy and thriving.