After experiencing several very cold weeks this past winter, many rhododendrons may have experienced winter burn, which may make rhododendrons look dead. Exposure to harsh sun and wind in winter can cause dry, brown, curled leaves and/or branches.
It is important not to prune rhododendrons prematurely before determining if they are still alive. At Laurelwood Arboretum, we have decided to wait for the plant to bounce back. It is important to evaluate the extent of winter injury. If the rhododendron shows damaged leaves but no obvious signs of death, give your plant some time. We will give our damaged rhododendrons time to begin spring growth before deciding to prune the damaged branches or determining the plant is dead.
One method to determine if the branch is dead is to scratch the bark of the dead-looking branch with your fingernail. If there is green wood underneath, the branch is still alive, and you should not prune it. If it is brown underneath, then the branch is probably dead, and you can prune it off. Another test is to check if the branch and stems are flexible rather than brittle. If there is green wood underneath or flexible branches, then wait to see if it produces new growth by late spring.
The key is to be patient to see if your rhododendron bounces back.
By Joe DiGiacomo – Head of the Rhododendron Study Team | 
