rhododendron

Rhododendrons (Rhododendron 'Sun Chariot') are hardy, low-maintenance plants that generally require minimal watering routine. To keep your Rhododendron 'Sun Chariot' looking healthy and vibrant, it is best to water it once or twice a week in the summer, providing about 1 inch of water every time. During the winter, reduce watering to about once a month, providing only enough water to keep the soil lightly moist. Keep an eye on your Rhododendron and water when the top few inches of soil become dry to the touch.

Rhododendron 'Sun Chariot' requires 5 to 6 hours of direct sunlight each day, although this plant will do best in dappled light throughout the day. Rhododendrons prefer morning sun more than hot afternoon sun, so if possible, provide filtered light with some east or southeast exposure (not too much!). Rhododendrons typically do best when planted in a shaded spot, or where they will receive dappled sunlight throughout the day. While they do need sunlight to bloom, they can suffer from leaf scorch and sunburn if they are getting too much direct sun.

Rhododendron 'Sun Chariot' should be pruned in late winter or early spring. Remove any dead, diseased, broken, or crossing branches and lightly thin out the crown of the plant if it is becoming too dense. Generally, pruning is not needed often or heavily. Simply trim out any branches that do not fit the desired shape. Pruning in summer or winter often causes too much stress on the plant, so it is best to avoid those times for pruning.