Knowledgebase

Green veins #742809

Asked April 06, 2021, 2:23 PM EDT

Rhododendron has been in ground for 20 + years is displaying dark green veins in leaves low on plant white new growth. Branches are dying off, was 6’ diameter now have cut back to 2’. Have added iron, spray and granular, any ideas what is ailing plant?

Washington County Oregon

Expert Response

Thank you for your question, Stanley.  Rhododendrons suffer from a variety of nutritional problems which cause yellowing (chlorosis) in their leaves.  It may be an issue of pH (which should be between 4.5 and 6.0), a lack of either iron or manganese, or a combination of nutrient deficiency of the three main nutrients:  nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.  I would suggest that you have the soil around your plant and ask the testing lab for recommendations to cure the problem(s).  Here is an OSU article with a list of labs in Oregon:  Analytical Laboratories Serving Oregon | OSU Extension Catalog | Oregon State University

Here is another general guide to rhododendron care that you might find helpful:  Azalea and Rhododendron Care and Culture | OSU Extension Catalog | Oregon State University

I hope these are helpful.  Good luck!

An Ask Extension Expert Replied April 06, 2021, 5:27 PM EDT

Loading ...