Right now at the Garden Center, we’re coming into rhododendron season. Rhododendrons are some of the most beloved spring blooms around, known for their big, bold flowers and easygoing nature. They’re our Plant of the Week through Mother’s Day.
In West Michigan, “rhodies” thrive thanks to our cool climate and slightly acidic soils. Whether you’re tucking them into shady corners or letting them shine front and center, rhododendrons bring reliable color and life to any garden.
PJMs Kick off the Bloom Show
In Michigan, these shrubs typically start blooming from late April into May which makes them the ideal Mother’s Day gift; one mom can enjoy every year around this time, for years, or decades, to come.
Here at Knapp Valley, our PJM rhododendrons kicked off their blooms this week, lighting up the nursery with their lavender-pink flowers. Baden-Baden and Yaku Prince varieties are just starting to crack open, and it’s only going to get better from here.
One variety that’s turning heads is Teddy Bear. It’s named for the soft, fuzzy brown underside of its leaves — a natural protection that helps the plant retain moisture and ward off pests. Plus, that fuzzy look makes it a standout even when it’s not blooming.
Pollinators Love Rhododendrons’ Spring Blooms, Too
Another reason to love rhododendrons’ early spring flowers are their benefits to local wildlife. They provide an important nectar source for bees and hummingbirds, especially here in West Michigan, where pollinators are just waking up and need a strong start to the season. Choosing varieties like PJM means you’re planting beauty and giving nature a helping hand.
The Best Rhododendrons for the West
While there are over 1,000 species of rhododendrons worldwide, our garden center carries the varieties that thrive right here in West Michigan. Whether for your own garden, or mom’s, here’s a peek at what we’ll have blooming:
- Haaga – Bright pink
- Maximum Roseum – Soft pink
- Nova Zembla – Deep red
- Landmark – Vibrant pink-red
- Ivory Coast – Creamy white
- Midnight Ruby – Deep ruby-red
- Anna H. Hall – Light pink
- Lemon Dream – Pale yellow
- Edith Bosley – Purple-violet
- Chionoides – Pure white
- Yaku Prince – Pink with a darker center
- Baden-Baden – Deep red (just beginning to open)
- Helsinki University – Cold-hardy pink blooms
