Yes, rhododendrons can grow in shade, but they generally prefer partial shade to full sun for optimal growth and flowering.
Yes, you can cut rhododendrons to the ground and they will likely grow back, as they have the ability to regenerate from their roots.
Rhododendrons help protect the soil, but they are not heavy feeders and do not change the soil much. Their leaves help build up the richness of the soil after they fall off. Rhododendrons have very shallow roots, so the leaf litter on the ground is important to protect these shallow roots from heat, cold, sun, drought, and sudden temperature changes. That is why in cultivation, they do best when they are mulched.
Rhododendrons might have the synonym "heaths" (the general family) or specifically "azaleas" (two subgenera of rhododendrons).
Deadheading rhododendrons is not necessary for the health of the plants. However, removing faded flowers can help improve the overall appearance and encourage more blooming in the following season.
Well you just did. But: I planted rhododendrons.
To effectively grow rhododendrons, plant them in well-draining soil with partial shade and acidic pH levels. Water them regularly, especially during dry periods, and mulch around the base to retain moisture. Prune them after flowering to promote new growth and fertilize them with a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
Any acid lovers like heathers and rhododendrons thrive in slightly acid soils.
Most rhododendrons and azaleas are killed by juglone, the toxic agent in black walnut. I know that a couple rhododendrons and azaleas are not killed. They include: Rhododendron periclymenoides Azalea 'Gibraltar' Azalea 'Balzac' Fortunately walnut leaves aren't nearly as big a problem as the roots and hulls. Conversely, some rhododendrons will kill plants planted near them. That is one thing that is so insidious about R. ponticum in England. The ponticum runs rampant and kills some of the native plants.
Peter Alfred Cox has written: 'The smaller rhododendrons' -- subject(s): Rhododendrons 'The cultivation of rhododendrons' -- subject(s): Rhododendrons 'Rhododendrons' -- subject(s): Rhododendrons 'Cox's guide to choosing rhododendrons' -- subject(s): Rhododendrons
Yes, rhododendrons are toxic to humans and animals if ingested.
Rhododendrons prefer shady conditions with some filtered sunlight.