This page contains links outside Washington State University which provide an option for finding further information. No endorsement of products or information at these sites is implied. Most of the garden rhododendrons have finished their delectable blooming for this year. It's time to think of taking care of the plants for the rest of the summer to assure their health and the beauty of their leaves. Washington State University trained Master Gardeners receive more questions about rhododendrons than any other garden ornamental.
People commonly have related problems.
The plants are too dry in the summer, the sun is too strong and the leaves scorch or unpruned plants grow out of control and become scraggly and unattractive. Other than these frequent problems, insects chewing on the leaves disturb gardeners most often. A group of root weevils of various types will chew on leaves, producing a characteristic notching that looks a little as if the plant has been attacked with pinking shear. As I've suggested before, if possible, choose plants that have some natural protection from root weevil damage. Check with your nursery for others.