Rhododendrons will continue to use water into late fall and should be watered regularly if nature does not provide the irrigation.  Winter protection by adding extra mulch at the base to protect the roots and by spraying the foliage with Cloud Cover in late November to seal moisture in the foliage will help to maintain a healthy plant.  In severe windy locations (we recommend not using this plant) a windscreen of burlap will be needed.

If the main leader is damaged, cut it back (leaving a 1-1/2 to 2 inch stub) before growth starts. Tie one of the side shoots to the stub in an upright position. That side shoot will become the new leader. Remove the tie in one year. If more than one natural leader develops, prune of the weaker one.

Very little care is needed for rhododendrons the first few years. Tip pruning, after flowers are spent (late May to June 15) and deadheading of spent blooms will encourage full plants. Prune at that time so they will set buds for fall. (Later pruning will result in fewer flowers next spring.)