Rhododendron deer resistant is a plant that is native to the mountainous regions of Asia and is known for its large, showy flowers. The plant is also known for its resistance to deer, making it a good choice for gardens in areas where deer are a problem.
Related plant:
Rhododendron Arboreum
Related plant:
Wild Rhododendron
About soil condition, well-drained soil is critical for rhododendrons. They are very susceptible to root rot, so good drainage is a must. The roots also like to be on the acidic side, so if your soil is on the alkaline side, you'll need to amend it. You can do this by adding peat moss or compost to the planting hole.
Like the other plants, rhododendrons need the right amount of sun to prosper. Too much sun will scorch the leaves, while too little sun will cause the plant to become leggy and produce fewer flowers. The ideal amount of sun for rhododendrons is 4 to 6 hours per day. If you live in an area with hot summers, it's best to plant rhododendrons in a shady spot to protect them from the intense heat.
The temperature conditions that are ideal for rhododendrons are those that are cool and humid. They will often do well in situations where there is morning sun and afternoon shade. If the temperature gets too hot, the leaves of the rhododendron will start to turn yellow and wilted. If the temperature gets too cold, the leaves will turn brown and drop off.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 60%, however it can survive in higher humidity conditions but may not flower as well. If the humidity is too low, the leaves will dry out and drop off.
About fertilizer, this type of plant doesn't need much. In fact, too much fertilizer will cause the plant to produce fewer flowers. It's best to use a slow-release fertilizer or organic compost to feed your rhododendron. As for the roots, they like to be in moist but well-drained soil. If the roots are too wet, they will rot. If the roots are too dry, the plant will wilt.
Pruning is an important part of rhododendron deer resistant care. When and how you prune will depend on the type of rhododendron you have. Some varieties, such as the evergreen rhododendron, can be pruned at any time of year. Deciduous varieties are best pruned in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
Propagation is by seed, semi-ripe cuttings, or hardwood cuttings. Seed can be sown in spring or autumn. Semi-ripe cuttings are taken in summer, and hardwood cuttings are taken in late autumn or winter.
Usually, the plant growth rate is relatively slow, taking anywhere from 2-10 years to achieve full-size. However, there are some exceptions, with certain varieties of rhododendron growing much faster. The 'Cunningham's White' hybrid, for example, can grow up to 3 feet per year.
Common problems for this kind of plant plants are deer eating the leaves, borers attacking the roots, and mealybugs infesting the stems.To avoid these problems, it is important to plant rhododendrons in deer-resistant areas and to regularly check the plants for pests.
Source:
Landscape Plants Rated by Deer Resistance - njaes.rutgers.edu
Ask Extension - Deer damaged Rhododendron (Trees & Shrubs)
Deer Resistant Plants - University of Connecticut
