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Essex, United Kingdom

I've had this shrub about 6years i get a lovely show, but does anyone know why the stems are not getting any thicker.I dont no what to do about pruning so up till now i've left it alone,any tips please.




Answers

 

It's a Rhododendron, one of the larger leaved hybrids. It's not looking too happy I must say as it should be more branched and fuller looking. The leaves also look very yellow. It could be because of a combination of things. Dry at the roots and soil that is not acidic enough. I see you are in Essex and I don't think the soils in the east are particularly acidic. Mulch heavily around the base with ericaceous compost and give it a good feed with an ericaceous liquid feed. It may become better over time.

27 Jun, 2010

 

evening Fractal, thank you for your quick reply,I have a bag of ericaceouss,now it's finished flowering should i move it,replanting it with the new soil,and to my back garden where it's more damp??Or what do you suggest,thank you

27 Jun, 2010

 

Evening :-) I wouldn't move it now though this coming autumn would certainly be an option. Lift with as good a rootball as possible as with any plant. Keep it well watered (good soak once a week) for now during dry weather and perhaps mulch with that compost too. I would also give it a liquid feed. If you are careful, when it has finished flowering, remove the seed pods too so that it doesn't waste precious energy forming seed.

Prepare the new planting position just before the move with plenty of ericaceous soil worked into the spot its going into and after planting, mulch heavily around with more compost. Good luck with it.

27 Jun, 2010

 

A big thank you,yes i will follow your advice, and wait till autum.

27 Jun, 2010

 

If at all possible make sure it isn't in full sun - these are woodland shrubs and need dappled shade.

28 Jun, 2010

 

that makes sense moon grower,i have that in my back garden on one side so i know just the right spot for it in the autum

28 Jun, 2010

 

Great! Makes sure to plant in acidic/ericaceous soil.

28 Jun, 2010

 

yes i've got it ready lol, thank for all your help your great

28 Jun, 2010

How do I say thanks?

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