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My Rhododendron barely had flowers this spring #931226

Asked May 10, 2026, 3:16 PM EDT

Rhododendron bush on the east side of house

Ramsey County Minnesota

Expert Response

I'm guessing, based on the photos and the eastern exposure, that your plant is getting adequate sunlight, the number one cause of lack of blooms.  Some other reasons:  not enough water (foundation plantings are especially susceptible to this) and improper pruning (rhododendrons rarely need pruning, but pruning late will eliminate blooms).  Although PJMs are quite hardy, another possibility is that a warmup in the spring caused the buds to break, and a subsequent hard freeze killed them.

Finally, rhododendrons must have low pH soil (acidic).  Have your soil tested:
https://soiltest.cfans.umn.edu/testing-services/lawn-garden

High pH soils can cause nutrient deficiencies (and possibly reduced blooming).  Fertilizing with an acid-plant fertilizer is not usually enough.  Mulching with pine needles does little to the soil pH.  We recommend soil amendments, such as elemental sulfur, at planting time. This is from Iowa State:
https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/how-to/how-change-your-soils-ph
Dennis in St. Louis Park Replied May 10, 2026, 5:28 PM EDT

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