Knowledgebase
My Rhododendron barely had flowers this spring #931226
Asked May 10, 2026, 3:16 PM EDT
Ramsey County Minnesota
Expert Response
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