GROW RHODODENDRONS IN TUBS

Evening Star, Issue 22460, 3 October 1936, Page 23

GROW RHODODENDRONS IN TUBS

Dwarf rhododendrons can be grown successfully in tubs, and gardeners whose ground contains lime, and is therefore unsuited to these charming shrubs, can still enjoy their beauty (says ‘ Popular Gardening,’ London). Rhododendron praecox bears a profusion of azalea-like flowers of a beautiful lilac shade. Rhododendron fastigiatum is smaller, and has lavendercoloured flowers and grey foliage. It blooms later than praecox, usually early in April. Another small rhododendron which does well in tubs is racemosum, pale pink flowers and small green leaves. All these are quite hardy, but in the colder districts a little protection is necessary in severe winters. They should be, planted in a mixture of peat, leaf-mould, and a little sand. In summer they require .plenty of water. All rhododendrons have surface roots, so a top dressing of peat and leaf mould or good lime-free soil in spring is necessary. This top dressing should also be applied if the soil has been washed off by rain. These rhododendrons do not require pruning, but dead pieces of branches may be removed in summer. They do better if they are not moved after being planted, but fresh soil can be put on top, and some of the old soil may be removed if necessary. Holes should be bored in the bottom of the boxes for drainage, and crocks should be put in.