Growing guide

How to grow rhododendrons

Commonly classed as either rhododendrons or azaleas, these popular woodland shrubs put on spectacular flowering displays from spring to early summer. Rhododendrons are usually medium or large evergreen shrubs, while azaleas tend to be smaller and may be evergreen or deciduous. Azalea flowers are usually smaller, but come in a more vivid array of shades, and are sometimes gloriously fragrant. Most rhododendrons and azaleas require acid soils.
 

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Quick facts

  • Group: Evergreen and deciduous trees and shrubs
  • Flowering time: Mainly spring
  • Planting time: Autumn or spring
  • Height and spread: Variable
  • Aspect: Generally light dappled shade
  • Hardiness: Mostly fully hardy

All you need to know

Before you get started
Planting
Ongoing care
Pruning and training
Propagating
Problems
While we think all this information will be helpful to you, we always recommend to read the instruction labels on your plants.

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