Rhododendron (azalea) «Nabucco»

Rhododendron (azalea) «Nabucco» / Rhododendron Nabucco - a deciduous rhododendron with abundant and long-lasting flowering. It is highly decorative during its extended blooming period, when large, wide bushes are covered with double dark red inflorescences.

The shrub is medium-sized, growing up to 140 cm in height, with a dense crown reaching about 160 cm in diameter. The leaves are numerous, medium-sized, oval-shaped, and green. The flowers are bright scarlet, forming large inflorescences. Flowering is abundant from mid-May to July.

Azalea hybrid Nabucco prefers sheltered, wind-protected, semi-shaded or sunny locations, and grows well in acidic, well-drained soils (pH 4–5.5). It does not tolerate regular overwatering well. It is resistant to major diseases. Frost resistance is high; adult azalea bushes can withstand temperatures down to −28°C.

It is used for planting near ponds, against the background of coniferous plants, in rock gardens, borders, and as a specimen plant.

Propagation of rhododendrons by seeds

Substrate composition. The optimal soil acidity at which rhododendrons develop well is within pH 4.0–5.5, although soil with pH 5.8 can also be used. Factors that determine the success of seed propagation in specific introduction conditions include the choice of sowing substrate, moisture regime, temperature, lighting, and seedling care. The substrate for sowing can vary, but it must be loose, acidic, and air-permeable. Fine fibrous rhododendron roots are located in the upper humus layer. Peat is an essential component of soil mixtures for germinating seeds and growing rhododendron seedlings.

The best time for sowing rhododendron seeds in a greenhouse at a temperature of 18–24 °C is November–December. Early sowing is advantageous because it extends the growth period of seedlings, allowing them to develop better during the growing season.

Since rhododendron seeds are very small and require light for germination, they must be sown on the surface without being covered, scattered evenly, and the containers covered with glass. As soon as most seeds germinate, the glass covering is removed, and the containers are moved to a cooler place (15–17 °C), where the young seedlings harden, strengthen, and develop better.

Further care consists of maintaining optimal moisture levels. Overwatering leads to infection, which spreads quickly, and within a few days young seedlings may die. Watering is best done in the morning using a sprayer or a watering can with a fine rose, very carefully.