Rhododendron 'Arctic Tern' Rhododendron 'Arctic Tern'

Water

The Rhododendron 'Arctic Tern', commonly known as Rhododendron, requires consistent moisture and should be watered once a week with about 1 inch of water. During hot or dry periods, the frequency should increase to ensure the soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged. It's important to avoid overhead watering to prevent disease; instead, water at the base of the plant. Established plants may require less frequent watering, but it's crucial to adjust according to the weather and the plant's stress signs such as drooping leaves.

Light

Rhododendrons, including the 'Arctic Tern', prefer bright, indirect light or partial shade. They thrive under the dappled sunlight of tall trees, which mimics their natural habitat in the understory of forests. Direct afternoon sun can be too intense and may harm the plant, so it's best positioned in a spot that avoids the hot midday sun.

Temperature

The ideal temperature range for the Rhododendron 'Arctic Tern' is between 60°F and 75°F. Rhododendrons can generally tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F before they start to experience cold damage. Protect them from strong winter winds by planting in a sheltered location, and consider the use of mulch to insulate the roots in colder climates.

Pruning

Pruning Rhododendrons like 'Arctic Tern' is typically done for shaping, removing dead or diseased wood, and promoting vigorous growth. The best time to prune is just after the plant has finished blooming in spring to avoid cutting off next year's buds. Light pruning and removing spent flower clusters can be done annually, while more extensive pruning should be done every few years as needed.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Rhododendrons require acidic soil with a pH of 4.5 to 5.5. The best soil mix for a Rhododendron 'Arctic Tern' or any rhododendron is a blend of 50% pine bark, 30% peat moss, and 20% perlite to ensure good drainage and aeration. Adding organic matter can also help maintain the necessary acidity levels.

Repotting

Rhododendron 'Arctic Tern' should be repotted when it outgrows its current container, which is generally every 2 to 3 years. It's best to repot in late winter or early spring before new growth begins, using a soil mix designed for acid-loving plants.

Humidity & Misting

Rhododendron 'Arctic Tern' thrives in environments with high humidity levels, ideally between 40% and 60%. These plants benefit from being placed in a naturally humid environment or having humidity increased with a humidifier or pebble tray with water.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light with acidic soil and ensure high humidity.

• Outdoor

  Partial shade, acidic soil, protect from wind, mulch root area.

• Hardiness zone

  5-8 USDA

Life cycle

The life of Rhododendron 'Arctic Tern,' commonly known as the Arctic Tern Rhododendron, starts with seed germination, where the plant begins as a seed planted in well-drained, acidic soil in a shaded area. After germination, the seedling emerges and goes through vegetative growth, developing leaves and establishing a strong root system. As it matures, the Arctic Tern Rhododendron enters a phase of reproductive growth, where buds form and eventually bloom into distinctive white flowers with yellow markings, usually in late spring. Following pollination, which is aided by insects, the flowers develop into seed pods that, once matured, release seeds to propagate the next generation. The plant experiences a period of dormancy in colder climates during winter, where growth slows significantly until conditions become favorable again in spring. The Arctic Tern Rhododendron can live for many years, continuing its cycle of growth, flowering, and dormancy, often enjoying peak blooming for several weeks each season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Rhododendron, particularly the 'Arctic Tern' variety, is commonly propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. This method is typically carried out in the late summer after the new growth has begun to mature and harden slightly. To propagate by cuttings, a healthy, disease-free shoot is selected and a cutting of about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 cm) in length is taken. The bottom leaves are removed and the cut end is often treated with a rooting hormone to enhance root development. The cutting is then placed in a well-draining potting mix, and kept under high humidity and indirect light until roots have developed, a process that can take several weeks to a few months. During this time, the cutting must be kept moist but not waterlogged to prevent rot. This method is favored for preserving the genetic characteristics of the parent plant.