Planting rhodos and azaleas

ormondsview · Posted: Thu Jun 18, 2009 12:53 pm Post subject: Planting rhodos and azaleas

I've been told not to dig up the wild rhodos as they spread and are hard to contain. We're looking down to the sea on an incline and I don't want to block the view at all. Do people find that the cultivars from nurseries are a better bet for blooming power? Which azaleas do you recommend? Thanks.

michael brenock · Posted: Thu Jun 18, 2009 4:50 pm Post subject:

The cultivars from garden centres have different characteristics to the wild rhodo eg colour, time of flowering, growth habit height length of flowering season susceptibility to disease drought and pests. the wild one blends in naturally into the landscape while the cultivated forms are far better around a house and lawn. it is all a matter of scale and colour variety.
michael brenock horticultural advisor (retired)

ormondsview · Posted: Mon Jun 22, 2009 12:26 pm Post subject:

I always thought rhodos and azeleas were hardy, given their leathery leaves and the ideal humid conditions of the gulf stream off of Kenmare Bay. I do have to consider that there is a prevailing wind which carries salt spray, that we live on a hill open to wind. Would you have a list of your favourite varieties given these impediments? Glad to hear what they would be.

michael brenock · Posted: Mon Jun 22, 2009 7:17 pm Post subject:

Having been in kenmare bay over the weekend I was impressed at the rhododendrons and azaleas there. my soil would not grow a rhodo as it is too high in lime, i have no favourite list sorry but i am sure there are many who will be able to help you. The salt spray should not be a problem but the elevation above sea level might. Mike coffey in grenville motors should be able to help out!!!!
Michael brenock horticultural advisor