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Why won’t my rhododendron flower?

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Question

I planted a rhododendron over five years ago in my garden near the Sunset district. It has never flowered. What am I doing wrong? Thanks in advance for your reply.
Evelyn
San Francisco

Answer

I fear that your Rhododendron may be in too shady a location. Rhododendrons do best in part sun or full morning sun. If they receive too little light the buds turn to leaf. You may want to consider moving it this coming Fall when it goes dormant. To do so now may stress the plant considerably.

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