PLANTING AND TRANSPLANTING : Page 104

should be borne in mind that the roots of rhododendrons and of thekindred plants such as the azaleas, feed near the surface of the ground.For this reason, and also because of the evergreen foliage characteristicssome root action should be encouraged, if possible, during the milderwinter months, and thus mulching of such plants is vital. Extremecare should be exercised in transplanting these types of plants. Plantsshould be put in a heavy, well-rotted leaf mold soil at no greater depththan the plant stood before moving from its previous location. It is acommon practice in the preparation of lawn areas and planting areas,especially in sections where clay soil predominates, to apply a largeamount of lime. Because lime in the soil is an element very injuriousto the growth of broad-leaved evergreens, none should ever be put inor close to any beds which are to be planted with rhododendrons.This is also true of building plaster and mortar, which is frequentlythrown into the soil adjacent to the foundation of buildings wherethese plants may later be put.