Changing Thoughts - Rhododendrons

Category: Ramblings | Posted: Sun May 24, 2009 2:20 am

It has been a cool/cold spring so most things are a little late in blooming. Rhodies are usually in major show from Mother's Day to Memorial Day. Here it is Memorial Day and I have a couple of Rhodies not even blooming yet.

Red Rhodie ( photo / image / picture from Jewell2009's Garden )
I used to think that the rhododendrons were pretty garish all bursting with color like the one above, but am finding them rather like old friends now. Year after year the provide blooms and don't take any work like perennials who need consistent dividing and maintenance. The one below I have never done anything to except give it a pruning every year or so, so that it doesn't block the backyard gate.

Old rhodie ( photo / image / picture from Jewell2009's Garden )
The little one below I had in a pot for ages on the patio. I was into making bonsai out of everything. I think it enjoys being in the ground better.
I have also found I now enjoy the bright to brilliant colors I once found garish about rhodies. Funny how tastes change.

( photo / image / picture from Jewell2009's Garden )

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glendann wrote on Sun May 24, 2009 3:40 am:

They are sure show offs .I sure like them the little ones color is so pretty .Of course the red is brilliant

eileen wrote on Sun May 24, 2009 9:32 am:

I was like you too and thought that rhodies weren't for me. Now I have done a complete 'turn around' and love to see their blousy blooms at this time of year. Your red one is a real eye-catcher, the pink splendid, but my favourite is the one in your last photograph.

Sjoerd wrote on Sun May 24, 2009 11:17 pm:

Hello Jewell,

Those are some nice-looking Rhododendrons! That bluish-lavender one really looks stunning.
Tastes certainally do change--I notice that in myself. Have you got some more lovely plants to show? :-)

SongofJoy57 wrote on Mon May 25, 2009 1:21 pm:

I love Rhododendrons. Here in the Appalachian mountain range, we call them mountain laurel, but I have never seen red ones. They are absolutely gorgeous. Thank you for sharing with us.

Droopy wrote on Wed May 27, 2009 2:48 pm:

I've always liked them, and love the bright splashes of colour they provide when in bloom. The rest of the year they make a nice backdrop for perennials.

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