RHODODENDRONS

Evening Star, Issue 22442, 12 September 1936, Page 23

RHODODENDRONS

ATTRACTIVE SHRUBS Rhododendrons comprise a krge_ and increasingly popular genus of plants that may justly be classed among the most beautiful and attractive evergreen flowering shrubs. A few attain the size of small trees. Their foliage is at all times attractive. Their flowers, which vary in size with the species or variety, are borne in the greatest profusion when the plants are in a clean, healthy condition (says the * Wanganui Herald ’). , . Of late years numerous hybrids have been raised .and certificated. The The variety Pink Pearl that caused a sensation among rhododendron fanciers, has already been superseded by some of the latest productions. Importations from China and the Himalayas have added some magnificent new and interesting species. In Britain rhododendron culture has received a great impetus. The hardy varieties or rhododendrons succeed under various conditions of soil and situation, but the presence, of lime in the soil is fatal to the well-doing of most of them. In our climate a fairly moist, loamy soil and partial shade is desirable. To provide partial shade during the summer a good system is to plant Japanese flowering cherries at suitable intervals among them,. The foliage. of the. cherries is sufficient to shelter them • from the sun, and they are bare of leaves throughout the winter and the branches are open. In uncongenial soil, with a stiff clay subsoil or hard pan, special preparation of the holes and under-drain-ing is necessary to prevent surplus moisture accumulating at the bottom of the holes. Prepare holes by digging them wide and deep, throwing out the clay soil and filling in with a prepared compost of turfy loam, leaf rubbish, and decayed peat and coarse sand. After first placing at the bottom of each hole from 9in to Ift of rubble or medium scoria, some well decayed cow manure may be mixed with the soil in the holes. This, although not according to old treatment, not to give rhododendrons manure, is most beneficial.