Hello, I have never used this service but would appreciate any advice you have on this. We have 2 flowerbeds in our front garden , approx size 1m20 x 1m. Ideally I’d like some large evergreen shrubs that flower in spring/summer. Plants need to reach max 1m20. No rigid square or round overall shapes, I’d prefer flowy and irregular. Our front faces west/southwest with a small wall for shelter. Would azaleas japonica or rhododendrons work? I’m not a great fan of vibernums. Many thanks for any suggestion you could give me. Best, Cristiana Cattaneo
Either of those will work, but I, personally, like the crawling Juniper. There are many types available, and They don't get very tall. You can train them into however you wish to. Here is an article for more information: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/juniper/growing-creeping-junipers.htm
Several years ago we bought a rhododendron at a local nursery. They told us the plant had a maximum height of 5’. It is over 8’ high. Will it survive if I cut it down to 2’ high and start over again? When is the best time to cut it?
Several years ago we bought a rhododendron at a local nursery. They told us the plant had a maximum height of 5’. It is over 8’ high. Will it survive if I cut it down to 2’ high and start over again? When is the best time to cut it?
We have a thick black covering on nearly all of our rhodendrons, pirrus and azalea - and we have a large woodland garden so it is a physically huge problem. I cannot possibly wash all the plants, it would take me years!! I need a spray to treat the pests that are causing this problem, but i need a lot of it. Could you advise me what to do please. Many thanks, Karen Morgan
This can be difficult, as there could be multiple pests. My best recommendation would be to apply a broad spectrum pesticide. This can be something as simple as a garlic spray, rosemary oil, or pepper extract. This collection of articles will help you to craft your own pesticides, among other organic gardening tips: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/organic/
I bought a house in December and there were buds on the bush should I cut them off
Rhododendrons and azaleas make their flower buds in late summer/fall. Those will bloom soon so do not remove them. When it is done blooming, pinch off the spent bloom with a slight twisting motion and a pinch. Some fertilizer for acid-loving plants is a good idea. I've provided a link to an article on rhododendron care: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/rhododendron/rhododendron-care.htm
All my neighbors' plants look the same.
Damaged and curled leaves could indicate pests or disease.
It also could be Winter Burn, as you mention neighbors appear the same.
These links will help you.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/rhododendron/issues-with-rhododendrons.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/rhododendron/pruning-rhododendrons.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/rhododendron/yellow-rhododendron-leaves.htm
The photo attached is of the Rhodedendron I wrote about a few minutes ago.
Does that garden bed allow for drainage? If it does, and you just receive large amounts of rainfall, then you will have to put in counteractive ingredients for a fungal infection.
You may have a hard time finding the ingredients in your country, although they are completely safe, and better than the readily available alternatives. They can be ordered and shipped for reasonable prices, still.
Just apply a handful of DOLOMITIC LIME, and a tablespoon WETTABLE SULFUR per plant. Apply evenly around the plants root zone for the best results. It helps to do this once or twice per year if you know that it will remain wet in your area for long periods of time.
This article will give you more information on the care of these: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/rhododendron/rhododendron-care.htm
Do you deadhead rhododendrons?
You can after the blooms have faded. This article will help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/rhododendron/rhododendron-care.htm