Rhododendrons and azaleas are closely related to each other and can be found growing on the forest floor in many parts of the world. In their partially shaded habitat they enjoy a slightly acidic, rich, organic soil often with a surface layer of decaying leaf litter. The following items should be considered in order to provide some of the "forest" conditions when attempting to establish rhododendrons and azaleas in the home landscape.

SITE SELECTION

Rhododendrons and azaleas do best in a location that receives partial shade. Rhododendrons and evergreen azaleas also benefit from a sheltered location that provides protection from the direct afternoon sun and the winter winds.

SOIL CONDITIONS

Rhododendrons and azaleas have fine silk-like roots that are important in absorption. These roots do not tolerate water saturated soil conditions. Poor drainage and wet soil are problems often associated with heavy clay and compacted soil. Planting in raised beds or mounding up native soil, to which organic soil amendments have been added, will help attain good soil drainage.

Rhododendrons and azaleas do best in a slightly acidic soil (pH 4.5 - 6.0). Organic soil amendments such as peat moss can help lower a high pH. Yellowing between the leaf veins is most often due to a pH problem and if this occurs, a soil test is suggested for exact recommendations on adding a soil amendment such as sulfur to the soil to lower the pH.