Rhododendron ‘Baden-Baden’

Description

• At the front of semi-shaded borders for a low, colourful edge
• In woodland-style planting with ferns, heathers and spring bulbs
• In large ericaceous containers on a terrace, balcony or by a front door
• Along paths or steps where the rich red flowers can be enjoyed up close
• In smaller gardens, rock gardens or courtyards where a full-sized rhododendron would be too large

• Soil Preparation: Evergreen azaleas need acidic conditions. Work in generous amounts of ericaceous compost, leaf mould or pine needle mulch before planting. If your soil is neutral to alkaline, consider a raised bed or container with ericaceous compost.
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as in the nursery pot – they dislike being planted too deeply.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially for the first couple of years and during dry spells. Use collected rainwater where possible in hard water areas.
• Feeding: Use an ericaceous fertiliser in early spring and again after flowering to support healthy growth and next year’s buds.
• Mulching: Mulch annually with leaf mould, bark or pine needles to help maintain soil acidity and conserve moisture.
• Pruning: Minimal pruning required. Lightly deadhead after flowering if needed and remove any dead or straggly shoots in late winter to keep the shape tidy.

• Use ‘Baden Baden’ in groups of three or five along a path or at the front of a border for a rich ribbon of red in late spring.
• Pair with softer pink or white azaleas and small ferns to balance the strong flower colour and create a layered, woodland feel.
• It’s brilliant in pots on a shaded terrace – just remember ericaceous compost and steady watering, especially in dry or windy spells.
• Underplant with early bulbs like snowdrops and dwarf narcissus so there’s interest before the azalea flowers, then let the evergreen foliage carry the structure for the rest of the year.