Rhododendron Morgenrot

Plant Rhododendron 'Morgenrot' in a partially shaded position, protected from cold and drying winds, in a moist, humus-rich and light soil, with a tendency towards acidity (pH between 4.5 and 6). Like all plants that prefer acid soil, it cannot tolerate chalky soils, drought, heatwaves, or heavy waterlogged soils in winter. If the soil remains moist in summer, this rhododendron can also tolerate exposure to non-scorching sunlight.

Dig a hole three times larger than the pot. Soak the root ball in non-chalky water and plant the bush at the collar level, in a mixture composed of 1/4 ericaceous soil, leaf compost, gravel or volcanic rock, and loam. Water generously and keep the soil moist in summer. Azaleas and Rhododendrons have a shallow root system, so they are susceptible to long periods of drought. That's why it is recommended to enrich the soil with organic matter and water abundantly during dry periods. Additionally, their root system is not very strong, which is why it is essential to lighten heavy soils with drainage materials (gravel, volcanic rock, clay pellets) at planting. Apply a mulch of shredded pine bark around the base of the bush every spring to maintain soil moisture and acidic pH.

Maintenance involves removing faded flowers in summer and cleaning out dead branches. Azaleas and Rhododendrons can sometimes be attacked by vine weevils, which eat the edges of leaves and rootlets, as well as the notorious 'rhododendron beetle', which rarely causes significant damage. Effective organic solutions are now available to control vine weevils. Yellowing of leaves (chlorosis) in Rhododendrons indicates poor assimilation of iron in the soil and can lead to premature death of the plant. While limestone (in the soil or irrigation water) is often the cause, poorly drained soil or deep planting can also contribute to this phenomenon.