catawba rhododendron

Water Catawba rhododendron (Rhododendron catawbiense 'Grandiflorum') regularly and thoroughly in order to keep the soil evenly moist. For established plants, water about once a week to a depth of 2 to 4 inches (5-10 cm). During hot, dry spells, the plants may need more water, up to twice a week. Young plants should be watered more frequently. Take into account any rainfall when planning your irrigation schedule.

Catawba rhododendrons prefer partial shade to full sun, for particularly long sunny days, dappled shade is preferred. These plants should receive at least 2 to 4 hours of direct sunlight per day during the growing season, which is generally April to September. During the winter months, the plants will benefit from filtered sunlight, as long as temperatures remain above freezing. The ideal morning sun exposure will help the plant to dry out quickly after dew or rainfall.

Catawba rhododendrons should be pruned after they complete their blooming cycle. This usually occurs in the late spring or early summer. Pruning should be done carefully and selectively, removing only dead or dying branches. To promote bushier growth, thinning or heading back can be done in areas of overcrowding. This should be done after blooms are finished but before August. It is also important to cut off any crossed branches which can cause additional stress on the plant. Removing up to a third of the tallest stems can also help maintain the size and shape of the plant and allow light to reach the lower parts of the bush. Make sure you use clean, sharp pruning tools and always sterilize them before and after use to avoid the spread of disease.