Rhodies & Azaleas
The Enduring Popularity of Rhododendrons and Azaleas
There are many good reasons rhododendrons and azaleas have remained two of the most popular home ornamental landscaping plants:
- They are varieties that are native to the Hudson Valley.
- They have beautiful flowers that come in many color choices.
- They are an easy to care for perennial that can outlive us!
- They come in both evergreen and deciduous varieties.
And, here’s something most people may not know – All azaleas are rhododendrons but not all rhododendrons are azaleas. These two plants are closely related to each other. Rhododendron varieties are usually larger in height, leaf size, and flower size while azaleas are more petite. In addition, most azaleas are deciduous while most rhododendrons are evergreen.
No matter which you choose, their flowers are fulsome in spring and their leaves provide interest once the blooms are gone.
Their growing preferences are few. They both do well in partial shade in a spot that shields them from the wind, and they prefer acidic soil. Mulching is recommended. Deadheading helps redirect the plant’s energy into next year’s blooms instead of seed production.You can’t go wrong when choosing azaleas and rhododendrons. They will make a striking addition to any landscape whether planted by themselves, in a grouping, or formed into a hedge.
