Click below to listen to my 2 min. Garden Bite radio show: Rhodos & Azaleas for the North
A listener recently asked me if Rhododendrons were the same as Azaleas. Well, kinda.
If you have a chance, visit the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum and be prepared to be amazed.
Botanically, azaleas and rhododendrons belong to the genus Rhododendron. This genus is one of the largest genera of woody plants, containing over 800 species. We can’t grow them all in our cold climate.
Basically, azaleas are deciduous (losing their leaves in winter) while rhododendrons are evergreen. They both need a more acidic soil with a pH around 5. There are plenty of pH kits at nurseries. And, of course, ask the folks at your local nursery about their needs too!
*Azaleas prefer an area with full sun to partial sun although they will tolerate slight shade.
*Rhododendrons will tolerate more shade than azaleas but need protection from winter sun to prevent leaf burn.
They’re both sensitive to extreme heat. These gorgeous shrubs are long-lived when planted in the proper site.
When planting, use a knife to cut through circling fibrous roots which can ball up in those containers. Pull the roots apart and spread them out. More information and planting instructions HERE.
Great Lakes Rhododendron suggestions for 2022 from The American Rhododendron Society
