Detailed Explanation of Fertilizing and Watering Methods for Alpine Rhododendrons

There are many opinions on the issue of fertilizing alpine rhododendrons. Based on our practice in recent years, the traditional Chinese method of concentrated fertilizing should be changed and replaced with "light fertilizer applied frequently," that is, balanced fertilizing with every watering, with special attention to the N:P:K ratio at different growth and development stages, because it has a relatively large impact. Every effort should be made to carefully test and analyze with each watering so as to formulate the most ideal pH value and EC value. We conducted a large number of experiments at different growth stages, for example, making 12 gradients of experiments from pH3.8 to 7.1. Although this proved that its adaptability is relatively strong, appropriate acidity is the guarantee of robust growth. Generally, it should be adjusted to between 5-6.5, which is more suitable. Different growth and development stages have different requirements. Different pH levels have a certain influence on flower color. We also conducted a large number of experiments from EC value 1.0 to 3.8. Practice has proved that different growth and development stages have different requirements. Attention should be paid to light fertilizer applied frequently and combining promotion with control, and the chemical composition of water quality should be carefully tested; high salt and high calcium are unfavorable to the growth of alpine rhododendrons, so every effort should be made to use rainwater or water treated by chemical or semipermeable membrane technology.