Green Thumb Corner

The Rhododendron Helsinki University, 'Rhododendron 'Helsinki University', produces bright pink flowers that are freckled with red. The bushes burst into bloom in late May to early June. The glossy green mature foliage opens in red tones on young plants. The Helsinki University is an evergreen with upright growth and it is super hardy. Plant in well-drained soil, in a sheltered location protected from north wind.

The Azalea, Red Mollis Hybrid, Rhododendron x kosteranum, is a lush, deciduous shrub that bears a splendid supply of vibrant, reddish orange, funnel-shaped blooms in an unsurpassed brilliance in spring and early summer. Red Mollis bears large clusters of 2 to 3 inch flowers and has been hybridized to be hardy even in more northern parts of the country. Flowers are borne in large, showy trusses in mid-spring just before the leaves emerge. The deciduous hybrid azalea is known for excellent fall color and unsurpassed spring flowers. If given too much shade or if plants are allowed to get too dry in midsummer, blooming will be reduced the following year. This azalea needs full sun. Red Mollis also requires acidic soils and excellent drainage. This azalea is usually trouble free if planted correctly in proper cultural conditions.

The Azalea, Pink Mollis Hybrid, Rhododendron x kosteranum, is a lush, deciduous shrub that bears a splendid supply of stunning pink blooms in an unsurpassed brilliance in spring and early summer. Pink Mollis bears large clusters of 2 to 3 inch flowers and has been hybridized to be hardy even in more northern parts of the country. Flowers are borne in large, showy trusses in mid-spring just before the leaves emerge. The deciduous hybrid azalea is known for excellent fall color and unsurpassed spring flowers. If given too much shade or if plants are allowed to get too dry in midsummer, blooming will be reduced the following year. This azalea needs full sun. Pink Mollis also requires acidic soils and excellent drainage. This azalea is usually trouble free if planted correctly in proper cultural conditions.

The Rhododendron Nova Zembla, 'Rhododendron 'Nova Zembla', is a dense-growing, small evergreen shrub that displays large trusses of flowers. The red flowers will appear in mid spring. The Nova Zembla is very effective as an accent plant. For best results, feed with an acid fertilizer after bloom and keep the roots cool with a thick layer of mulch. This plant will attract butterflies and other wildlife. It is generally heat and sun tolerant and perhaps the most widely grown and successful red hybrid for harsh climates.

The Azalea, White Mollis Hybrid, Rhododendron x kosteranum, is a lush, deciduous shrub that bears a splendid supply of spectacular white funnel-shaped blooms in an unsurpassed brilliance in spring and early summer. White Mollis bears large clusters of 2 to 3 inch flowers and has been hybridized to be hardy even in more northern parts of the country. Flowers are borne in large, showy trusses in mid-spring just before the leaves emerge. The deciduous hybrid azalea is known for excellent fall color and unsurpassed spring flowers. If given too much shade or if plants are allowed to get too dry in midsummer, blooming will be reduced the following year. This azalea needs full sun. White Mollis also requires acidic soils and excellent drainage. This azalea is usually trouble free if planted correctly in proper cultural conditions.

The Rhododendron Haaga, 'Haaga Rhododendron', is a new, hardy, dwarf variety from the University of Helsinki, Finland. It produces dark pink flowers which contrast nicely with the dark green, coarse foliage. The Haaga will begin to bloom in May. This plant needs excellent drainage, mulching and a peat moss soil additive. Roots will rot in poorly drained soil. It will not do well in windy sites. This dense evergreen shrub is a highly valued landscape ornamental. The large groups of showy pink flowers appear on even young plants. The Haaga is a very effective accent plant.