dying rhododendron buds- why - Ask Extension
I noticed that my rhodie's blooms are either dead or might soon.
I have 2 rhodie's in separate locations in my yard.
they on sprinkler systems, an...
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dying rhododendron buds- why #925775
Asked March 10, 2026, 1:24 PM EDT
I noticed that my rhodie's blooms are either dead or might soon.
I have 2 rhodie's in separate locations in my yard.
they on sprinkler systems, and rec. regular watering.
I moved here 1.5 yrs ago. I think last yr also didn't have many
blooms. I wasn't paying attention whether or not blooms were turning brown.
the larger one has significant azalea lace bug.
the smaller one does not.
Last yr i gave both some Rexius compost.
i've googled the possibilities, but i get different answers.
Leaving me confused.
Lane County Oregon
Expert Response
Thank you for your question, Donna. There are over 2 dozen diseases which cause problems for rhododendrons (and azaleas). https://pnwhandbooks.org/plantdisease/host-and-disease-descriptions?title=rhododendron
Without being able to examine the buds and leaves, and potentially test the soil for fungal growths, we can’t tell what problem(s) your plants have. I suggest that you send plant tissue samples, as well as soil samples near the roots, to the OSU Plant Clinic. https://bpp.oregonstate.edu/plant-clinic/submit-sample/how-submit-plant-materials
I hope they can help. Good luck!
Without being able to examine the buds and leaves, and potentially test the soil for fungal growths, we can’t tell what problem(s) your plants have. I suggest that you send plant tissue samples, as well as soil samples near the roots, to the OSU Plant Clinic. https://bpp.oregonstate.edu/plant-clinic/submit-sample/how-submit-plant-materials
I hope they can help. Good luck!
