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Rhododendrons have vivid colors and bloom brilliantly, presenting a lively scene of prosperity. This may be one of the main reasons many households like to grow rhododendrons. So how should rhododendrons be grown so they thrive? It is said that growers need to strictly pass several key stages.

For rhododendrons, the most suitable growing temperature is 15-20°C. They generally bloom from April to July and are widely recognized as one of the best ornamental flowering plants. They also have these names: yingshanhong, shanshiliu, shanzhizhu, and hongzhizhu.

First, the soil and water stage

This refers to choosing the right growing medium for rhododendrons and mastering the correct watering method. This issue has been discussed a great deal, and there is much experience to draw on. If you have the energy to care for them carefully, the quantitative watering method is recommended. This stage can also be called the survival stage, and the goal is to keep the rhododendron alive.

Second, the water quality and fertilizer stage

To ensure the long-term healthy growth of rhododendrons, with abundant flowers and lush foliage, acidic water quality and appropriate fertilizer are very important. At this stage, FeSO4 plays a key role. It can both lower the pH value and provide sufficient iron and sulfur. Although their specific effects are not fully understood, practical experience shows that these effects are important. Other nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are used similarly to other flowers, only in reduced amounts, because rhododendrons need less fertilizer. The second stage can be called the improvement stage, and the goal is to keep them healthy and growing for a long time.

Third, the pruning and shaping stage

The purposes of pruning and shaping are, first, for aesthetics, and second, for rejuvenation. Rhododendrons are perennial woody plants and tolerate pruning, so they can be pruned into distinctive potted works. There is a lot of knowledge involved here. Rhododendrons have their own growth patterns, and it is not easy to make them grow according to human arrangements. Plant shape can be controlled through measures such as bud removal, branch shortening, tying, and heavy pruning. In addition, after rhododendrons have grown for many years, they will show signs of aging and weaker growth. At this time, pruning can restore growth vitality. For specific methods, relevant materials can be consulted. The third stage is basically the mastery stage. Once you pass it, you can be said to have mastered rhododendron bonsai.

Obviously, once you pass the above three stages, you may have become an expert in growing rhododendrons. However, to truly handle the above three stages well, you also need a clearer understanding of the growth habits of rhododendrons, such as what kind of soil, water quality, and fertilizer are beneficial to their growth, and so on.