Rhododendron 'Ginny Gee'
Description: One of the best dwarf hybrids which has quickly became one of the most popular varieties as tough, easy to grow and very floriferous.
The prolific flowers in April develop as bright pink buds which open to blush pink, changing to white, completely hiding the compact dome shaped evergreen shrub.
Uses: deal for smaller garden or large containers in ericaeous soil.
Climate/Position: Dappled shade prefered. I
Height/Spread: Only 60 x 60cm in 10 years.
Soil Requirements: Rhododendrons prefer soils with a low pH/ peaty soil or ericaceous compost to avoid chlorosis or yellowing of the leaves.
Pruning: Generally avoid pruning. Flower stalks can be pinched out (by finger and thumb rather than secateurs) when flowering is complete.
However, older plants which need rejuvinating or are unshapely do respond well to hard pruning in early spring.
Special Requirements: Applying a mulch regularly around the plant will help moisture retention in the soil. Where plants struggle a little if not grown in soil with low pH, then Rhododendrons will always benefit from an annual feed of sequestered iron to ensure the plants do not suffer from iron deficiency which is indicated by interveinal chlorosis or yellowing of leaves between the veins.
Additional Interest: Bred in the late 1980's by Warren Berg in Washington State, USA. A hybrid between keiskei, prostrate form x racemosum.