The Rhododendron Garden
Tucked away on the shaded side of the garden, beneath tall poplars and birches, lies the Rhododendron Garden.
In the fall of 2023, around thirty rhododendrons were planted here, in a mix of colours and sizes. Taller varieties form the backdrop, while lower-growing cultivars create a softer front layer. In time, they will develop into a dense, flowering garden, with heights ranging from compact plants of around 60 cm to larger shrubs reaching up to 3 metres.
The conditions closely resemble a natural woodland habitat. The soil is sandy and acidic, enriched each year by a layer of fallen leaves. Morning sun reaches the garden briefly, after which it shifts into filtered light and shade. Mosses appear on old tree stumps and among the slowly decomposing leaf litter.
While these conditions suit rhododendrons well, the light sandy soil also makes moisture retention an ongoing concern, especially while the plants are still young. Groundcover plays an important role here. In winter, winter purslane forms a soft green layer, flowering in early spring before retreating again. It is followed by young herb robert, which rises quickly in April and helps protect the soil from early drying.
Between the shrubs, permanent groundcovers are gradually establishing. Persicaria affinis ‘Darjeeling Red’ and Geranium cantabrigiense ‘Biokovo’ are planted in groups and will, over time, knit together to form a continuous living layer that shades and protects the soil. Early in the season, drifts of bluebells appear between the rhododendrons, marking the transition from winter to spring.
Rhododendrons are known for their shallow and sensitive root systems, something that became clear during the first year of establishment. While most plants settled well, a few of the smaller ones struggled in this exposed, sandy soil. With careful mulching, occasional feeding, and extra watering during dry periods, the garden continues to strengthen and develop.
Together, these elements form a quiet woodland garden where shade, soil life and gradual growth shape the atmosphere.
Woodland shade and soft colours
Main plant species
Rhododendrons and their height when fully grown
Rhododendron ‘Scarlet Wonder’ (approx. 0.5–1 m)
Rhododendron ‘Red Jack’ (approx. 1–1.5 m)
Rhododendron ‘Gomer Waterer’ (approx. 2.5 m)
Rhododendron ‘English Roseum’ (approx. 2.5 m)
Rhododendron ‘Virginia Richards’ (approx. 2.5 m)
Rhododendron ‘Cunningham’s White’ (approx. 3 m)
Ground layer and seasonal planting
Winter purslane
Herb Robert
Persicaria affinis ‘Darjeeling Red’
Geranium cantabrigiense ‘Biokovo’
Bluebell
Surrounding trees
Poplar
Birch