October 10, 2024, 11:18 am | Read time: 2 minutes
The rhododendron is still in bloom in some gardens, but soon the flowers will wither, and its heyday will be over. myHOMEBOOK editor Franka Kruse-Gering reveals when and how you should prune the rhododendron so that you can enjoy its flowers for a long time.
In principle, you do not need to prune a rhododendron, but occasionally, a rejuvenating pruning can do no harm. For example, if the plant has become a little out of shape. However, there are a few important points to bear in mind when pruning.
When is the right time to prune rhododendrons?
Rhododendrons are sensitive, so there are a few important details to bear in mind when pruning. The plant can be pruned before or after flowering. Before flowering, you can reach for the shears in February and March, depending on the frost, of course. After flowering, the rhododendron can be pruned from June to November. The flowers are a good guide in summer. Once they have withered, the plant can be pruned.
How to prune a rhododendron
It is important to use clean tools. This is the only way to prevent diseases from other plants spreading to the rhododendron through the cut. Before pruning, you should check whether the plant is properly rooted. If it is not and you prune it, the chances of new shoots are rather poor. Good rooting can be checked by pulling a little on the plant. If it moves well, it is not firmly integrated into the bed.
The branches can be pruned to 30 to 50 centimetres for radical rejuvenation pruning. When pruning, make sure that the branches are not cut straight. Rainwater could collect at these points. The cut should be made at an angle of around 45 degrees.
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Proper care after pruning
After you have pruned your rhododendron, it is naturally weakened for the time being. Now, it needs special care. An extra dose of fertilizer is advisable. You can support the rhododendron with special fertilizer or horn shavings.