THE DIRT ON RHODIE AND AZALEA HYBRIDS

摘要

Rhododendrons and azaleas have always had an irresistible allure for northern gardeners, but some of the loveliest varieties were difficult or impossible to grow in colder climates. Others were hardy, but grew too large, or had a limited color palette. Over the last 70 or 80 years some notable plant breeders right here in Northeast Ohio have done much to remedy the situation. Cleveland Botanical Garden has in its collections many hybrid rhododendron and azaleas that were developed by these dedicatedhybridizers. Due to careful breeding and selection, these plants are able to withstand the rigors of local winters and come in a wide variety of colors and useful sizes. These characteristics have lead to popularity and use throughout much of the rest of the United States.