Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of working with many gardeners and homeowners who share my love of rhododendrons and azaleas.
One experience that stands out was when a client — who has since become a good friend — in Orrville called me one August to look at her overgrown rhododendrons.
Maybe you’ve faced something similar: the corner of her house was completely hidden by three massive plants, their branches reaching from just under the eaves to the ground.
While I admired their lushness, the timing was tricky — we were in the middle of a drought, and that’s not the best time to prune. I suggested waiting, but she was eager for a change. Maybe you’ve felt that impatience, too.
We took a careful, conservative approach, trimming just enough to restore some shape and removing the dead, damaged, and diseased branches. The results were immediately satisfying, and she was happy to have her house visible again.
Recently, I received an email from a fellow gardener — perhaps like yourself — who was uncertain about pruning some newly planted rhododendrons. As we exchanged messages, it became clear that the real concern was the plant browning.
If you’ve ever wondered whether a struggling plant is still alive, you’re not alone.
My go-to method is simple: I use my thumbnail to gently scratch the rhododendron’s bark. If you see green tissue beneath the surface, that branch is alive. If it’s brown underneath, the branch is dead.
Try this on a few branches — if you find no green at all, unfortunately, the plant is likely gone.
Often, inadequate watering is the culprit. Remember, evergreens like rhododendrons need more water than many people realize, especially when they’re young.
Keep their soil moist, but not soggy, to give them the best chance of survival. If you’re planting something new this year, resist the urge to prune during the first season.
In my experience, it’s best to let new plants establish themselves before reaching for the pruners.
After that first year of growth, gentle pruning can help shape healthy branches, but pruning right away can actually harm the plant by reducing the water stored in its branches.
Patience now pays off with healthier, more resilient shrubs down the road.
If you’ve struggled with rhododendrons, azaleas, or their relatives, you’re not alone. One challenge I hear about often is choosing the right spot in the garden.
These beauties thrive in rich, organic soil and prefer partial shade, away from harsh southern or western sun. I’ve found that a layer of double-ground hardwood mulch not only keeps the soil cool and moist but also boosts its health.
Maybe you’ve tried this, too — or maybe it’s an idea to experiment with in your own garden.
When pruning rhododendrons, remember that their flowers grow on branches that are a year old. Like many of you, I grow shrubs for their blooms, and I’m careful not to prune away next year’s flowers.
Unless a homeowner specifically asks, I avoid cutting flower buds. If you want to keep your rhododendrons blooming beautifully, try pruning just after the flowers have faded — this way, you won’t accidentally reduce next season’s display.
Here’s a tip I’ve found helpful: after pruning, spread a layer of fresh compost and topsoil beneath your plants. It’s a simple step that can make a big difference in the health and beauty of your garden.
Let me share another story, since you might have faced a similar situation.
For three years, I worked with a homeowner to solve the mystery of rhododendrons that simply refused to bloom. Despite looking healthy and well-suited to our Ohio climate, the buds would freeze each year before opening.
Perhaps you’ve seen this, too — a plant that seems perfect, but just won’t flower. This experience taught me the importance of selecting varieties that are suited to our local growing zone.
It’s a simple precaution that can save you years of frustration and disappointment.
In conclusion, choose plants designed for your growing zone and prune them only in appropriate times of the year.
Enjoy your strolls through the garden — whether indoors, outdoors, or even just in your imagination.
If you ever run into challenges or have questions about your plants, don’t hesitate to reach out. I love hearing your stories and am always happy to share what I’ve learned.
You’re welcome to email me at ericlarson546@yahoo.com.