catawba rhododendron

Water Catawba Rhododendron (Rhododendron catawbiense 'Boursault') thoroughly once each week during warm weather (when temperatures are 65 degrees F or higher). Reduce watering frequency to once every 3 weeks during cool weather (when temperatures are below 65 degrees F). Make sure to check the soil moisture as needed to make sure it is moist but not soggy. To do this, insert your finger into the soil up to your first knuckle. If the soil is moist, then the plant does not need water. If it feels dry, then the plant should be watered.

The Catawba rhododendron (Rhododendron catawbiense 'Boursault') is an evergreen shrub that is best suited to full, bright sunlight when grown outdoors. It is the most shade-tolerant variety of rhododendron and can thrive in a spot where it gets at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Morning sunlight is most beneficial for this shrub, as it can help to dry off the leaves and prevent problems from fungal diseases. For best blooming, provide the Catawba rhododendron at least 6 hours of full sunlight each day.

Catawba Rhododendron should be pruned to maintain a compact, shapely form and to control size. The best time of year to prune is late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins. The pruning guidelines differ slightly for established vs. newly planted plants. For established plants, prune branches that are dead, diseased, or broken. Remove any branches that cross over each other and thin out the center to open up air circulation. To maintain size and shape, carefully trim back the outer edges of the plant. Remember to prune just above a node (where a bud or 2 is located). For newly planted catawba rhododendrons, selectively prune some of the branches to help shape the plant and reduce its size. Pruning hard (removing a quarter of the plant) should usually be avoided.