Caring for and providing proper nutrition to rhododendrons is critical to their health and flourishing. Spring is an important time to fertilize these beautiful plants, and with the right strategy, they can flourish in all their glory. While there are specific rhododendron fertilizer products on the market, it is possible to use different types of complete fertilizer to meet their nutritional needs.
Traditional fertilizers such as cow manure or pelleted chicken manure can be effective alternatives for supplying essential nutrients to rhododendrons during the spring. However, it is important to avoid fertilizers that contain lime, such as Algomin, as these can raise the pH value in the soil, which is not beneficial for rhododendrons, which thrive best in an acidic environment. Instead, consider replenishing the rhododendron bed with material such as oak leaves, coniferous needles or bark mulch each year to maintain the acidic soil in which these plants thrive.