• Rhododendrons will thrive for many years when planted correctly.rhododendron image by stephane12 from Fotolia.com
  
  Rhododendrons are perennial shrubs with glossy leaves and brightly colored spring and summer blooms. The bell shaped blooms range in colors including white, yellow, red, lavender, purple and salmon. Mature growth ranges from five feet tall to over 20 feet tall. Proper planting of rhododendrons is crucial to its success in the garden.
  
  

Planting

• Dig a hole in the ground as wide and as the rhododendron's root ball. Make the hole deep enough to allow for the top one to 1-1/2 inches of the root ball to rest above the soil's surface.
  
  

Watering

• Provide 1-1/2 to 2 inches of water to the rhododendron every two to three weeks.
  
  

Mulch

• Mulch helps prevent weeds from emerging in the rhododendron's soil. Spread a 2-inch layer of pine bark or hardwood mulch to the base of the rhododendron in the fall. Allow for three inches of space between mulch and the rhododendron's stems to help prevent disease.
  
  

Pruning

• Rhododendrons don't require extensive pruning, except in cases where it develops weak and diseased stems. If this occurs, prune the stems and discard away from the soil. Stems left in the rhododendron's soil may spread the disease back to the rhododendron.
  
  

Disease

• Rhododendrons are susceptible to Phytopthora, caused by a fungus in the soil. To prevent this, plant rhododendrons in well-drained soil. Garden centers offer ingredients that help improve the soil's drainage ability.
  
  

Soil

• Rhododendrons grow best in a soil with a pH level between 4.5 and 6.0. Soil tests reveal the soil's pH level, and are available through local extension offices and garden centers. Garden centers sell ingredients that increase or decrease the rhododendron's soil as needed.
  
  

Fertilizer

• Garden centers sell fertilizers for acid-loving plants like rhododendrons.garden center image by Photoeyes from Fotolia.com
  
  Use a fertilizer designed for acid-loving plants in the fall, if you notice yellowing or wilted leaves. Allow three to four months before fertilizing a newly planted rhododendron.