What size container for rhododendron

hI think 5 lt pot is a good size, as it will save having to move it to a bigger one later, think you should go for one that grows to about 4ft no bigger and dont forget to plant in acid soil, keep well watered for this year and remember to feed with special rhod food. good luck

Thanks for advice - problem is I found containers are sold in inches/cms - not litres. I was thinking of about a 11" or 12" pot. Do this sound about right?

Hi Geoffo,
The best container to grow a Rhododendron in would be a half barrel, a 5lt. or 12 inch pot would blow over constantly even at 2ft. tall. You could grow summer bedding plants round it to keep the roots cool and get colour after your Rhodo has finished flowering.

The biggest container you can manage.

Geoffo is there are reason why you want to grow your roddy in a container rather than the ground?

"Geoffo is there are reason why you want to grow your roddy in a container rather than the ground?"

Yes, I'm putting it on top of a sewerage cover to hide it. Also, I don't have acid soil

Have you tried to find a dwarf rhody or an azalea ?

I would decide which Rhododendron I wanted in the tub, find out what diameter it grows to then buy a container just slightly less wide than this. When grown the leaves of the Rhody will just cover the edge of the tub.

Hi Geoffo - I discovered a new breed of Rhododendrons earlier this year - they grow in neutral soil! If you can find one, you will be able to grow it in the ground... I have! They are INKARHO plants. Try a google and you'll see.

I think Rhododendron 'Cunningham's White' is one that is tolerant of non-acid soil too.

Whatever you decide on though, you do need a large pot.

Not if he plants it in the soil, though! :-) Mine is coming into flower... I never thought I'd have one in my garden!

Thank you for all your replies. You have all been most helpful. One other question which you will probably all consider a real beginners question. Should I line the pot (little stones?) before adding the soil.

It shouldn't need lining, Geoffo, but it should have plenty of drainage holes in the bottom.