Rhododendron Rhododendron (Choremia Group) 'Choremia'

Water

Azaleas, the common name for the Rhododendron 'Choremia', should be watered thoroughly to maintain a moist but well-drained soil condition. They require consistent moisture and should not be allowed to dry out completely, yet they are sensitive to overwatering which can lead to root rot. During the active growing season in spring and summer, water them with about one inch of water per week, either from rainfall or manual watering. During the fall and winter, reduce watering but do not let the soil become bone dry. It's best to check the top few inches of soil for dryness before watering again.

Light

Azaleas prefer dappled sunlight or partial shade locations where they are protected from harsh afternoon sun. They thrive under the canopy of tall trees that provide filtered light. The perfect spot allows them to receive bright, indirect light in the morning with protection from the intense midday and afternoon sun, which can scorch their leaves.

Temperature

Azaleas grow well in a temperature range of 50°F to 80°F and can survive minimum winter temperatures down to around 20°F. They flourish when the temperature is cool to moderate and stress under extreme heat or cold. The ideal conditions for azaleas include cool nights and warm days without drastic temperature fluctuations.

Pruning

Azaleas should be pruned to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased branches, and encourage bushier growth. The best time to prune azaleas is just after they finish blooming in spring, as pruning later in the season can remove next year's flower buds. Pruning every year is not necessary unless you are shaping the plant or controlling its size.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Rhododendrons require acidic soil with a pH of 4.5 to 6.0 for optimal growth. A well-draining mix with 50% peat moss or pine bark and 50% perlite or coarse sand is ideal for Rhododendrons. Organic matter such as leaf mold can also be beneficial for nutrient retention and soil structure.

Repotting

Rhododendrons, typically slow-growing plants, need repotting every 2 to 3 years. It's best to repot them in spring before they enter their active growth phase, ensuring minimal disruption to their growth cycle.

Humidity & Misting

Rhododendrons thrive in moderate to high humidity levels, generally between 40-60%. Protecting them from dry air, especially in heated indoor environments during winter, is essential for their well-being.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright, indirect light and ensure good air circulation.

• Outdoor

  Plant in dappled shade, shelter from strong winds.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

The Rhododendron 'Choremia' begins its life cycle with seed germination, requiring well-drained soil, warmth, and light for successful sprouting. Upon emergence, seedlings develop into juvenile plants with characteristic glossy leaves and eventually mature into shrubs with a structure conducive to flower bud development. Annually, typically in late spring to early summer, the Rhododendron 'Choremia' produces clusters of vibrant flowers that are pollinated by insects, leading to the formation of seed capsules. Once the seeds are mature, they are dispersed by wind or gravity, ready to begin a new cycle if conditions are favorable. This plant can also propagate vegetatively through cuttings, a method often preferred for maintaining specific cultivar traits. Throughout its life, which can span several decades, the Rhododendron 'Choremia' undergoes recurring cycles of growth, dormancy, and blooming, adjusting to seasonal changes and environmental conditions.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Rhododendrons, including 'Choremia', are often propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings, which is a popular method due to its effectiveness. The best time to take cuttings is from late summer to the early fall when new growth has partially matured. Cuttings should be approximately 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long and include several leaf nodes. The bottom leaves are removed, and the cut end can be treated with a rooting hormone to encourage root development. The prepared cutting should be placed in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring one or two nodes are buried where roots will form. The cutting requires a humid environment, which can be maintained by covering it with a plastic bag or placing it in a propagator, and kept at a consistent temperature of around 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 24 degrees Celsius). With proper care, roots usually develop within several weeks to a few months, at which point the new rhododendron plant can be gradually acclimated to less humid conditions before being transplanted outdoors.