Rhododendron Care Instructions

Landmark

Landmark A dark pink version of the popular and hardy PJM small leaf Rhododendron. Dome-shaped trusses of funnel-shaped fuchsia pink flowers emerge in early spring, overlapping with Forsythia, and last for weeks. Small leaves are evergreen, but turn a beautiful rich mahogany color in late fall.

‘PJM’, ‘Landmark’, ‘Olga Mezzitt’                 

Category: Flowering broadleaf evergreen shrub

Sunlight: Sun, Part Sun

Soil Conditions: Moist (Typical)

Habit: Rounded, vase-shape

Growth rate: Slow/moderate

Fertilization: Spring apply either Espoma Holly Tone or Dr. Earth Bud & Bloom Booster. While more tolerant of our alkaline soils than their large-leaf cousins they’ll perform better when soil sulfur is incorporated into the planting hole and top-dressed (applied directly to the soil surface) at least once annually, although twice (perhaps spring and fall) would be better.

Landscape benefits and culture: Gorgeous spring flowers, nice summer foliage, fall/winter color on an evergreen plant! Best utilized in groupings for the flowers and winter evergreen texture. Sun or ½ day shade. Some winter shade and protection from unbridled winter wind is preferred. Soil MUST be well-drained. Please see our Rhododendron & Azalea Planting Instruction sheet for the details as these Rhododendrons are planted very differently than most other trees and shrubs. Don’t overwater, even in the first year. They’re more successful if allowed to dry somewhat between waterings.

Pruning: Unnecessary.  Deadheading (removal of spent flowers) is beneficial, but tedious and largely a cosmetic consideration.

Potential pests/issues: Phytophthora, a fungus disease that’s only a problem when plants are subjected to excessive moisture.