Revive Dying PJM Rhododendron
PJM rhododendrons are hybrids bred from two types of the plant. They are named after Peter J. Mezitt, who originally bred the plants in a nursery in the state of Massachusetts. Like other members of the azalea family, PJM rhododendrons have very specific soil and sunlight needs in order to thrive. If you notice your rhododendron plant is drooping or dying, try to adjust its fertilizer or the amount of sun it receives to revive it.
Soil and Nutrition
PJM rhododendrons adapt to soil better than other varieties but still prefer to live in acidic soil that drains well. If you notice the plant is drooping or that its leaves have turned yellow, you can attempt to revive it by adding a ring of fertilizer around the root ball of the shrub. Don't apply fertilizer directly to its roots and use a fertilizer designed for rhododendrons, which will add acidity to the soil. Adding peat moss or sulfur to the soil can boost its acidity.
If the soil becomes water-logged the plant will suffer and its leaves will yellow. Try to drain any excess water from the soil to improve the health of the plant. If the soil is compacted, it can become water-logged and can prevent air circulation around the roots. If that is the case, gently aerate the soil around the roots to improve airflow and revitalize the plant. Be careful that you don't harm the plant when aerating the soil.
It's possible to add too much fertilizer to the plant and cause it to look as though it is dying. When there is too much fertilizer, the leaves will dry out. If that is the case, flush out excess fertilizer by adding more water to the soil.
Fungal Diseases
PJM rhododendrons are subject to a few diseases caused by fungus. You can revive a plant infected with a disease such as Botrosphaeria Dieback by immediately pruning away any branches that seem to be infected with the fungus. Signs of the disease include brown, curled down leaves. When snipping away injured or dead branches, be sure you don't harm the plant further. Only use clean pruning shears and wash and disinfect the shears after use.
Another common disease is Rhododendron wilt. A fungicide can help the plant bounce back from this infection, though in some cases, it may be too late and the fungicide will only keep the fungus from spreading to more plants. As with Botrosphaeria Dieback, the best way to treat the plant suffering from Rhododendron wilt is to prune any dead branches or remove any plants that are completely dead.
You can attempt to revive plants suffering from a fungal infection by providing them with protection from the sun. Rhododendrons do best in partial shade, as the heat from the full sun can cause stress, which makes them more susceptible to infection. Plant them in soil that drains properly, as too much moisture encourages fungal growth. A layer of mulch over the soil will protect the plants from too much moisture and heat and may help revive an ill plant.
