Rhododendrons don't actually need pruning, they naturally grow densely. Nevertheless, a topiary is possible to bring an old rhododendron bush back into shape or to stimulate it to sprout again.

In a nutshell

  • Rhododendrons naturally grow in a rounded shape
  • remains dense and willing to flower for a long time
  • Topiary can give compact appearance again
  • make sure that the shrub does not bare from the inside out

This is how rhododendrons grow

Basically, it is not necessary to cut a rhododendron. It grows by itself in a round, attractive shape and constantly forms new flowers, usually when the old ones have just faded. These new buds will then bloom the following year. Because of this trait, it is difficult to know the right time to prune the shrub. You always have to expect to remove future flowers when pruning, with a very radical pruning even the entire flower will fall out the following year.

cutting measures

pruning

  • Remove spent flowers without affecting new bud formation
  • Cut away dead, dry shoots
  • branches that grow too weak
  • diseased shoots or areas infested with pests

Tip: After the shrub has been trimmed, it can be pruned into shape a bit to restore it to its previous appearance.

topiary

  • mainly for trimming shrubs into shape
  • remove shoots that are too long
  • remove crossing and obstructing branches
  • promote compact growth

taper cut

  • occurs in old, bare bushes
  • severe pruning promotes new growth

Notice: Only plants that are well rooted can tolerate severe pruning.

material

  • depending on the size of the bush
  • secateurs
  • Pruning shears, possibly with a telescopic handle
  • ladder
  • Gloves (plant is poisonous!)
  • saw

time

The right time depends on the variety of rhododendron and the respective flowering period. It is usually between March and May, sometimes a little later.

Shape cutting instructions

  1. It is best to work in pairs. One cuts, the other looks at the bush from afar to assess the shape.
  2. First remove any branches clearly growing out of shape at the point of attachment.
  3. Then thin out the entire bush a little.
  4. Also remove crossing, too close together and weakened shoots.
  5. If the shrub has grown too large overall, now cut off all the remaining shoots directly above a bud or a branch.
  6. Assess the new shape from a distance and make any corrective cuts.

aftercare

Especially after heavy pruning, the rhododendron is grateful for conscientious aftercare. This includes:

  • Clean up the root area
  • Remove weeds, old leaves and wilted flowers
  • remove any top layer of soil
  • Add rhododendron soil
  • fertilize with compost or horn shavings
  • pour copiously
  • mulch
  • keep weed free

Tip: If the growth is uneven, you can use a topiary the following year re-corrections on the rhododendron make.

frequently asked Questions

Can the rhododendron be put on the stick?

With rhododendrons it is also possible to put them on the stick, that is, to cut them back completely and build up a new crown. All shoots are shortened to 80 cm above the ground. In order not to strain the shrub too much, this is best done in two steps at intervals of one year.

The cut rhododendron does not bloom, what to do?

Most of the time nothing needs to be done. The rhododendron must first recover from the pruning measures. After that it forms new buds and depending on how hard it is pruned, it will flower again in one to two years.

How can the clippings be disposed of?

Shredding is one option, as the clippings can then be used as a mulch layer. Diseased leaves should be disposed of in the residual waste. A lot of trimmings are in good hands with the local waste disposal company or a professional composting facility.

Category:

Garden plants