when rhododendrons bloom: old wisdom vs. new trends

Every spring, when the rhododendrons burst into color across our North American yards, I’m reminded of my grandmother’s garden. She always said, “Let the old roots be; they know the land.” But now, my daughter wants to try new hybrid varieties, chasing brighter blooms and longer flowering seasons. It’s funny—back then, we trusted the tried-and-true, the sturdy shrubs that survived harsh winters and dry summers. Today, everyone’s talking about climate-resilient cultivars and drought-tolerant soil mixes. Some neighbors insist on native plants to protect our pollinators, while others just want the showiest blossoms for curb appeal. Last week, our community group debated whether to allow non-native rhododendrons in the public park. Some argued it would ruin the local ecosystem, while others said it’s about time we modernized our landscapes. I stood there, remembering how my family’s rhododendrons sheltered robins’ nests and shaded our summer picnics. This year, the blooms are especially vivid—maybe it’s the mild winter, or maybe it’s the new fertilizer my daughter swears by. But I wonder: are we losing something precious as we chase novelty? Or is this just the next chapter in our gardening story? I’d love to hear your memories, your experiments, and your thoughts. Do you stick with tradition, or embrace the new? #rhododendrons #gardeningdebate #familytraditions #Gardening