Rhododendron Dora Amateis

Plant Rhododendron 'Dora Amateis' in a sunny or in a semi-shaded position, protected from cold and drying winds, in a damp, humus-rich, and light soil with an acidic tendency. Like all plants in the heath family, it does not tolerate limestone soils or heavy soils saturated with water in winter. Dig a hole three times larger than the pot. Soak the root ball in non-calcareous water and plant the shrub at the level of the collar, in a mixture composed of 1/4 compost, humus, gravel or pumice, and loam. Water generously and keep the soil moist in summer.

Azaleas and Rhododendrons have a shallow and relatively limited root system. Therefore, they are sensitive to long periods of drought. That is why it is recommended to enrich the soil with humus beforehand and water abundantly with non-calcareous water during dry periods. In addition, this root system is not very strong, which is why it is essential to lighten heavy soils with draining materials (gravel, pumice, clay pellets) when planting. Apply a mulch of shredded pine bark around the base of the bush every spring to maintain soil moisture while keeping an acidic pH.

Maintenance involves removing old faded flowers in summer using pruning shears and clearing the plant of dead branches. Azaleas and Rhododendrons can sometimes be attacked by weevils that eat the edges of leaves and rootlets, as well as the infamous "rhododendron beetle" which does not often cause significant damage. Yellowing of the leaves (chlorosis) in Rhododendrons indicates poor iron assimilation in the soil and can lead to the premature death of the plant. While limestone is generally the cause, poorly-drained soil or deeply planted root balls can also explain the phenomenon.