Designing Drama
When it comes to a garden’s design, introducing elements of drama does wonders in elevating the look and feel of an outdoor space. Incorporating shrubs with exciting shapes, colors, and contrasts helps create these dramatic moments, and the award-winning Black Hat® rhododendron (Rhododendron x) does it better than most! An absolute scene-stealer, this plant captivates audiences with a fabulous contrast of vibrant flowers against deep, dark foliage.
Arriving in the first few weeks of spring, Black Hat® rhododendron dazzles as soon as it appears with ruffled purple-pink blooms that sit atop leathery evergreen leaves. Worthy of year-round admiration, this variety has flowers that last longer and foliage that darkens to an attractive purple-black in the cool fall weather.
Black Hat® rhododendron does best when planted in USDA zones 4-8. A generally low-maintenance shrub, it performs nicely in full to part sun and acidic soil that is both moist and well-drained. At a height and width of 3′, it doesn’t require pruning, instead looking its finest when left to grow naturally in its compact, upright habit.
Watering Your Shrubs
How much water is the perfect amount? That is the question many gardeners face when tackling one of the fundamental tasks of gardening. In the video below, Kristina offers some clarity by sharing tips on how to determine a plant’s water needs and how to water correctly, so you can handle this essential gardening task without added anxiety.