The soil should be kept aerated and the ground moist. For those not having these natural conditions, some additional help may be necessary. Some varieties will take a few hours of direct sun in the morning, but most need protection from the intense Southern sun. Trees should be tall enough to be limbed up so the shrubs will get plenty of light. These trees will cut the force of drying winds in winter as well as summer.
Drainage is improved by planting on a slope a northern slope is preferable to a southern slope.
When using rhododendron in a foundation planting, avoid southern exposures. The best place to plant is on the north or east side of a building. The soil for these woodland plants must be well-drained and high in organic matter. Organic matter improves drainage in clay soils and will increase a sandy soil s ability to retain water and nutrients. Add about 4 inches of pine bark over an area two to three times the area to be covered by the branches of the plant you are setting.