Spring is here which means its Rhododendron season! These spectacular plants usher in Spring with a fanfare of bold and bright flowers, varying in colour from pure whites through yellows, pinks, reds, purples and blues.

Often sold together with their smaller, more delicate cousins the Azaleas, these majestic plants are, in the main, evergreen so hold their leaves all year round before erupting in colour any time from early March for the keenest types, right through to the end of June for some of the later varieties.

There is a Rhododendron or Azalea for every garden or balcony with the smallest growing to just 6ocm (2ft) tall and so ideal for a pot, or rockery, and the largest growing up to 8m (20ft) tall - great at the back of a border or the end of the garden (where I have them!)

If you’re growing them in a pot, use ericaceous compost -( that's a growing medium that has high acidity which plants like Rhododendrons love - ask us - we can help), and keep them well watered. They hate drying out!  

Here in the High Weald we generally have an acidic soil so we are lucky enough to be able to grow Rhodos and Azaleas straight in the ground to great effect, as illustrated by the wonderful gardens at Sheffield Park, Leaonardslee, Nymans and Wakehurst - all well worth a visit at this time of the year. If you’re nearer the coast you’ll need some ericaceous compost dug into the ground at the time of planting to keep your new addition happy. 

Don't plant them too deep - the same level as the pot they arrive in is perfect - no deeper! A partially shaded spot is ideal, but I have some in a very sunny spot in my garden and they thrive with their roots in damp soil next to a pond. Water well after planting and in their first year and they will reward you with gorgeous, vibrant Spring colour for years to come.

Enjoy!