Rhododendron ‘Elizabeth Hobbie’ 3L

Rhododendron ‘Elizabeth Hobbie’ 3 ltr This plant produces rich waxy scarlet trumpets, large for the size of the plant, which cover this sturdy plant in early May.

• Height/Spread: 2-3ft (60-90cm)
• Flowering Period:April / May
• Growing Conditions: Sun or part shade (best flowering with some sun) in a fertile moist and humus rich acidic soil.

Planting Rhododendrons and Azaleas have a fibrous root system that is relatively shallow and therefore make sure that the root ball and the soil are moist when you plant. Incorporate Ericaceous compost and mix well with your own soil to help improve structure and aid water retention. Rhododendrons and Azaleas do not like heavy clay or poor drainage and planting them on a slight rise may help as will the addition of organic material and removal of any large pieces of clay. The planting depth for rhododendrons and azaleas is crucial and they do not like being buried any deeper than they are in the pot that you buy them in. They do not like having ordinary garden soil, particularly heavy or clay soils piled over the root system. Mulching over the root ball shallowly with Ericaceous compost is on the other hand beneficial as it keeps the roots cool and moist. Aftercare Rhododendrons and azaleas are not gross feeders and a feed in March with an ericaceous feed (either granular or pelleted) is normally adequate. If the plant starts to demonstrate yellowing of the foliage (particularly between the veins) it may need extra feeding with a liquid feed. Sequestrene is a very good fast acting tonic. Please check however that the yellowing is not caused by lack of water. Watering is crucial for these plants as the root system is not extensive or deep and they will always need watering during dry periods and certainly for the first 2 seasons. Pruning Rhododendrons and azaleas do not need regular pruning. They can however be pruned after flowering if they have got too big or if you want to improve density. This may affect flowering on the larger rhododendrons for a year but they will resume flowering normally in subsequent seasons. Japanese Azaleas on the other hand can be pruned lightly with shears every year and still flower as normal. Please note: All plant listed are stocked by Bents at various periods throughout the year, however, due to seasonality and variations in weather and growing conditions some lines may be unavailable. We advise contacting the store prior to your visit to check on availability.