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All About Buds
A single rhododendron flower bud typically contains multiple flower buds within it. Rhododendron buds are fascinating! Here are some interesting facts: Flower and Leaf Buds Are Different: Rhododendrons form two types of buds—flower buds and leaf buds. Flower buds are larger and more rounded, while leaf buds are smaller and more pointed. Dormant Buds: Rhododendron…
Leaf v Flower Buds
In rhododendrons, understanding the difference between leaf buds and flower buds is essential for predicting growth patterns and managing the plant’s health. Flower buds are typically larger, rounder, and more compact compared to leaf buds. These buds contain the developing flowers for the next bloom season, and their bulkier appearance is due to the tightly…
Big Changes, Big Growth!
We’ve had some absolutely stunning weather lately, and we’ve been making the most of it to get things moving here at RhodoDirect. The big news? Our new propagation house is nearly up! We’ve been all hands-on deck, installing the internal hoop system in the main tunnel house—so much so that we’re all feeling a little…
Indumentum & Tomentum
What is indumentum in rhododendrons? Indumentum refers to the soft, woolly or velvety layer of hairs found on the underside of rhododendron leaves. It can vary in colour from silvery-white to reddish-brown and serves to protect the plant from harsh weather and moisture loss. What is tomentum in rhododendrons? Tomentum is a dense layer of…
A Little Spring Cleaning: Embracing Change & Growth
Spring has officially sprung at our nursery, and we’re in full spring-cleaning mode—just call me Marie Kondo! This season of renewal is the perfect time to refresh, reorganise, and make way for new growth, and that’s exactly what we’re doing here. One of the first things you’ll notice on your next visit is our brand-new…
Why It’s Great to Pick Fragrant Rhododendrons?
Fragrant Rhododendrons: A Perfect Choice Fragrant rhododendrons are perfect for picking and using in vases inside or as gifts, like tussie mussies for friends. Picking fragrant rhododendrons naturally promotes a bushier plant. The Princess Alice and John Bull rhododendrons are particularly noteworthy because their foliage is fragrant all year round. Rhododendrons stand out among the…
How to Create an Acidic Garden Bed for Rhododendrons
Creating an acidic garden bed is crucial for growing healthy rhododendrons and other acid-loving plants. If your new garden soil isn’t naturally acidic, don’t worry! You can adjust the pH levels using cost-effective, natural methods. Here’s how you can achieve the perfect acidic environment: Peat Moss Peat moss is a top choice for acidifying garden…
Discover the Enchanting World of Fragrant Rhododendrons
Many gardeners are unaware that the world of scented rhododendrons extends beyond the popular Fragrantissimum and Loderi varieties. While these cultivars are timeless classics, there’s a broader range of fragrant rhododendrons worth exploring. Fragrantissimum has a wonderful scent but tends to be leggy and open with fewer flowers per truss. Its blooms are also rather…
Thrip Tips: Battling Tiny Garden Terrors with Big Results
Understanding and Managing Thrips Thrips, scientifically known as Thysanoptera, are tiny dark-coloured insects that can cause significant damage to plants. Despite their small size, about 2mm in length, thrips can wreak havoc on various plants, including rhododendrons. Here’s a concise guide on how to identify, prevent, and manage these pesky insects. Identifying Thrip Damage Thrips…
Why Yakushimanum Hybrids?
Exploring the Charm of Yakushimanum Hybrids: The Rolls Royce of Rhododendrons Yakushimanum hybrids hold a special place in the hearts of gardening enthusiasts worldwide, renowned for their compact growth, stunning blooms, and unique foliage. These hybrids are a testament to nature’s beauty and resilience, earning them the title of the Rolls Royce of rhododendrons. Among…