Seasonal care: Rhododendron shelter for the winter

Rhododendron, which is still known as a rose tree, is one of the most popular ornamental plants in the world. This can be explained by the fact that it has a spectacular appearance, and at the same time is not very fastidious in nursing. The most attractive is the rhododendron in spring, when beautiful flowers of different colors (purple, white, red, orange and others) stand out clearly on the green background of the foliage. Over 100 species of this plant can be found on the territory of our country. In addition, a lot of its hybrids are also displayed. With regard to care, the most important thing in it is a proper wintering, depending on the particular species. About how the shelter of rhododendrons is made, and we will go further.

First, you need to determine the plant variety. The prevailing view of fragility and fear of severe frosts is incorrect, because some species can withstand temperatures of minus thirty degrees. In this case, we are talking about the most delicate part of the bush - flower buds. The plant itself is able to withstand more severe conditions. Therefore, for some species of such a bush as a rhododendron, shelter for the winter is not required. Whatever it was, regardless of the variety, young varieties are recommended to be insulated, especially in the snowless winter.

Some of the plant varieties evaporate moisture even in winter. This should not be forgotten and should be provided with the necessary amount of water. This is done before the first frosts by abundant watering in the amount of about twelve liters of water for each specimen. Further mulching is carried out at the expense of a thick layer of pine bark. As soon as the first frosts come, it should be increased by adding pine needles or compost. Such a peculiar shelter of the rhododendron for the winter will allow him to easily survive it.

It should be noted that deciduous species are less demanding for frost compared to others. The main thing for them is that the branches are under a snow cover, and the root neck was sprinkled with dry foliage or peat with a layer about 15 cm thick.

The shelter of the rhododendron for the winter can be both artificial and natural. In the first case, all kinds of skeletons, covered, as a rule, with kraft paper are suitable for its role. As for natural species, they usually are dry oak foliage or spruce lapnik. It is considered a good shelter for the rhododendron for the winter, like sacking. Some of the domestic gardeners even build special houses using polypropylene and polyurethane foam.

The branches of the rosewood are quite fragile, so you should constantly shake off the snow. If this is not possible, it is recommended to build a kind of frame for it from boards, not forgetting the need for fresh air.

The created shelter of rhododendron for the winter needs to be removed after the threat of the temperature dropping below the level of ten degrees below zero is passed. The fact is that none of the varieties of this plant are afraid of such temperatures. Moreover, if the shelter remains, this can lead to the fact that the bush will prop up. In the event that the plant is protected, it will survive even a very severe winter successfully.