Detailed Explanation of Key Techniques for Alpine Rhododendron Cultivation and Management

When the seedlings you purchased arrive at the greenhouse, they are usually quite fragile and prone to damage during transport, so careful handling by the grower is very important. Strengthen management from the very beginning, and many problems later on can be avoided.

1. First potting: If you purchased plug seedlings, it is best to use rigid plastic pots 8-10 cm in size. Do not press the substrate in the pot too firmly, so as to allow aeration, and maintain a certain level of moisture. Do not prune at potting time; wait until the root system is well developed and the terminal buds begin to grow before pruning.

2. Cultivation: One month after potting, if the root system has developed well, pruning can be carried out. You must cut off the terminal buds. Branching from the base is preferable; after pruning the plant looks like a shrub, with a full and compact plant shape, and at this point attention should be paid to fertilizing. If branching is poor, a second pruning should be carried out. At this time continue fertilizing and increase the nitrogen content. In summer, be sure to water adequately to prevent water shortage, but excessive water may also cause anaerobic respiration in the roots and affect growth, and sometimes it can also affect flower bud differentiation. In autumn, reduce fertilization and watering.

3. Second potting: When the root system of the alpine rhododendron has filled the 8-10 cm pot and the plant has grown to 10-15 cm in height with 5-6 branches, it is time to repot, using a 14-16 cm pot; at this point the amount of fertilizer should be increased, combined with appropriate shaping and pruning and pest and disease control.