rhodendron

The Rhododendron myrtifolium plant should be watered regularly and consistently throughout the growing season. Always water thoroughly, making sure the soil is completely saturated, and allow the top layer of soil to dry out before watering again. During the summer months, water should be provided about once a week. During the winter, water should be reduced to once every 2 weeks. Make sure to avoid over-watering; if you see leaves wilting or discoloring, it's a sign you may be overwatering and should decrease the frequency or quantity of your watering.

Rhododendron myrtifolium needs a minimum of 6 hours of full sun each day to thrive and bloom best. It should be planted in an area of the garden that is protected from strong winds and where it will get morning sun and some afternoon shade. In hotter climates, afternoon shade is recommended. The plant should be given plenty of water, but it should not be allowed to remain overly wet as this can cause root rot. Rhododendron myrtifolium can also be planted in partial shade, but it will produce very few blooms.

When pruning Rhododendron myrtifolium, it is important to do so lightly and take care not to remove too much branch or leaf material. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring after the buds have set, but before they open. Yearly pruning keeps the plant neat and encourages more blooms. Remove any dead, damaged or crossing branches. To encourage the growth of new shoots, shorten the old stems to just above a growth bud. This should be done by no more than 1-third of the previous length, and you should never remove all of the flowering buds in 1 season. By doing this, you’ll achieve the desired shape without compromising the health of the Rhododendron myrtifolium.