Rhododendrons and Azaleas

Many people associate Rhododendrons with big woodland bushes but Rhododendrons (and Azaleas who are part of the Rhododendron family) can be dwarf and compact. The one thing they all have in common is beauty - one of the most architecturally pleasing flower heads in every colour imaginable! In Britain flowers appear mostly in spring varying from single bell shaped blooms, to enormous trusses of flowers. Flower colours include white, cream, yellow, orange, pink, red, dark red, mauve, near blue and many shades in between.
Hardy hybrid rhododendrons vary in foliage, flowers and forms but mostly have dark evergreen leaves, present all year. The variety ‘Pink Pearl’ is an old favourite as pictured above. Even if you live in an area where the soil is predominantly alkaline, where it is considered difficult to grow rhododendrons, it is sometimes possible to gain some success by treating the soil around the plants four times a year with an Ericaceous Plant Food.
Dwarf evergreen varieties
These are low-growing shrubs that flower in spring. Numerous flower colours and flower forms are available, the small varieties are very effective when planted in rock gardens and are a good choice for patios, where there is some shade.

Evergreen azaleas

The hybrid evergreen azalea varieties were mostly derived from Japanese plants. Popular as houseplants, and chosen for growing in containers on patios in small gardens, most of these spring-flowering shrubs thrive in semi shade or sun - so long as the soil is never allowed to dry out.
Large evergreen varieties
These rhododendrons grow tall and are suited to woodland settings. The leaves are dark green or they can be brownish in colour. Two varieties that have won the RHS Award of Garden Merit are ‘Purple Splendour’ flowers are purple with black blotches , and R. ‘Susan’ a delicate lilac shade. All these varieties grow to a height of between ten and twelve feet eventually.
Soil Requirements
To grow well, Rhododendrons require acid compost (one that is not alkaline, chalky or limy). It should also be rich in organic matter and not compact. Peaty compost is suitable or sandy loam.
If you live in a chalky area, Rhododendrons and Azaleas look great in pots, just don't stand them in water filled saucers. Plant in Ericaceous compost. Since many rhododendrons are scented it adds to their appeal as pot plants.
Many rhododendrons grow best with some shade during the day. After the flowers have faded, remove unwanted rhododendron seed heads and mulch the ground around the shrubs, this is usually in the summer, to ensure another fabulous display next year.

St Bridget Nurseries, have a wide range of Rhododendrons and Azaleas in their garden centres including the varieties listed above.