Over the past couple of months, we’ve faced some challenges in freighting plants across the country, but I want to take you behind the scenes and share the exciting changes we’re making to improve the process. First, let me say how much I appreciate the incredible patience many of you have shown while we worked…
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Powdery mildew has become a growing concern for many gardeners in recent years, especially on certain plant varieties. It’s a sneaky little fungus that starts small but can cause big problems if left unchecked. Let’s check out what it is, how to spot it, and, most importantly, how to manage and prevent it. What is…
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Watering your garden is both a science and an art. Knowing when and how to water can make a significant difference in the health and vitality of your plants. Here are some must-know tips to ensure your garden thrives, even during dry, hot summer days. By understanding your plants’ needs and practicing efficient watering techniques,…
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What a Year It’s Been! Wow, what a year! After hitting the road for a New Zealand-wide rhodo road trip, it quickly showed important it is to start doing more of our own propagating. So, we sharpened our secateurs and got to work, beginning to collect material in February. Selecting cuttings was the quick part;…
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Each year, I’ve had grand plans to add some Christmas decorations to the nursery, and this year, I’m finally on to it! The Thuja trees, which protect our plants from the afternoon sun in the shade house, make the perfect Christmas trees. With a little inspiration from Pinterest, I’ve turned some wooden pallets into fun…
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Have you ever noticed the striking markings inside certain rhododendron flowers? Known as blotches or sometimes the eye, these unique colour patches sit on the upper petal lobes or deep within the flower. Far from just a pretty detail, each blotch is a work of art, adding charm and depth to the rhododendron’s appeal. They…
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Bud Blast in Rhododendrons: Causes, Symptoms, and Control Bud blast is a common fungal disease in rhododendrons that primarily targets the flower buds, preventing them from blooming. The disease is caused by the fungus Seifertia azaleae, which results in the death of developing buds. Affected buds may turn brown, black, or silvery grey, depending on…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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