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What size container for rhododendron

geoffo

By Geoffo

Sussex, United Kingdom Gb

I want to buy a rhododendron and keep it in a countainer. Most of them are sold as "5 litre" in my local garden centre. What size pot should I buy? Also, are some rhod better than others when kept in containers?




Answers

 

hI think 5 lt pot is a good size, as it will save having to move it to a bigger one later, think you should go for one that grows to about 4ft no bigger and dont forget to plant in acid soil, keep well watered for this year and remember to feed with special rhod food. good luck

17 May, 2009

 

Thanks for advice - problem is I found containers are sold in inches/cms - not litres. I was thinking of about a 11" or 12" pot. Do this sound about right?

17 May, 2009

 

Hi Geoffo,
The best container to grow a Rhododendron in would be a half barrel, a 5lt. or 12 inch pot would blow over constantly even at 2ft. tall. You could grow summer bedding plants round it to keep the roots cool and get colour after your Rhodo has finished flowering.

17 May, 2009

 

The biggest container you can manage.

17 May, 2009

 

Geoffo is there are reason why you want to grow your roddy in a container rather than the ground?

17 May, 2009

 

"Geoffo is there are reason why you want to grow your roddy in a container rather than the ground?"

Yes, I'm putting it on top of a sewerage cover to hide it. Also, I don't have acid soil

17 May, 2009

 

Have you tried to find a dwarf rhody or an azalea ?

17 May, 2009

 

I would decide which Rhododendron I wanted in the tub, find out what diameter it grows to then buy a container just slightly less wide than this. When grown the leaves of the Rhody will just cover the edge of the tub.

17 May, 2009

 

Hi Geoffo - I discovered a new breed of Rhododendrons earlier this year - they grow in neutral soil! If you can find one, you will be able to grow it in the ground... I have! They are INKARHO plants. Try a google and you'll see.

17 May, 2009

 

I think Rhododendron 'Cunningham's White' is one that is tolerant of non-acid soil too.

Whatever you decide on though, you do need a large pot.

17 May, 2009

 

Not if he plants it in the soil, though! :-) Mine is coming into flower... I never thought I'd have one in my garden!

17 May, 2009

 

Thank you for all your replies. You have all been most helpful. One other question which you will probably all consider a real beginners question. Should I line the pot (little stones?) before adding the soil.

18 May, 2009

 

It shouldn't need lining, Geoffo, but it should have plenty of drainage holes in the bottom.

18 May, 2009

How do I say thanks?

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