Where to plant azaleas

How To Plant Azalea Bushes

Azaleas are small, shade tolerant flowering shrubs belonging to the Rhododendron genus.

Their long-lasting blooms appear in the springtime and provide welcome color in shady gardens.

Success with Azaleas is very dependent upon proper planting techniques.

In this article, we share information to help you plant your Azaleas right. Read on to learn more.

Location, Location, Location!

One of the first things you should consider when planting Rhododendrons and Azaleas is a location.

Azalea bushes like to be in a position where they can receive sun in the morning and shade or filtered light in the afternoon.

Putting an Azalea in a position where it will receive full sun all day will cause stress.

A stressed plant is far more susceptible to pests and diseases.

Soil Preparation Is Very Important

Another thing you should consider when placing your Azalea is the type of soil present in your chosen setting.

Azaleas like acidic, well-draining soil.

Take the time to test the soil pH before planting your Azalea bush.

Azaleas thrive in acidic soil with a pH of around 4.5 to 5.5.

If the pH level is higher than 6.0, you must amend the soil using aluminum sulfate or agricultural sulfur.

Follow packaging instructions carefully.

Azaleas also like soil made up of a great deal of organic matter.

If you find your soil is heavy and made up of a great deal of compacted clay, you should amend it with organic matter such as:

Pine Leaf Compost
Oak Leaf Compost
Expanded Clay
Canadian Peat
Sand

A ratio of 50% native soil and 50% amendments is usually about right.

Leave Ample Room for Growth & Air Circulation

Once you’ve chosen your setting and made sure your soil is correct, begin planting your Azalea bushes.

Be sure to leave plenty of space around each bush to allow for growth and for good air circulation.

The amount of space necessary varies depending upon the type of Azalea you’ve chosen to grow.

Be sure to read the instructions coming with your Azalea bush carefully to determine just the right amount of space.

7 Steps to Azalea Success

When you’re ready to actually plant, follow these steps:

#1 – Keeping the plants in their pots, set them in their potential locations.

Look at them to be sure they have plenty of space, and they are aesthetically pleasing.

#2 – Dig planting holes as deep as the plant root ball and twice as wide.

Mix the soil you have dug out of the hole with an appropriate amendment such as a professional garden soil especially prepared for shrubs and trees and/or amendments such as those listed above.

Go for a 50-50 mix.

#3 – Remove your plant from its pot and rough up the surface of the ball of roots as needed to encourage good root growth.

#4 – Place the plant in the prepared planting hole.

Make sure the surface of the rootball is slightly higher than the soil line.

#5 – Backfill around the roots using the 50-50 mixture of native soil and amendments.

Mound the soil around the slightly elevated root ball.

This method will ensure the plants’ roots do not become waterlogged and subject to fungal infection.

#6 – Give your Azalea bush a deep, thorough watering.

#7 – Mulch of oak leaves around the plants’ roots to help conserve moisture.

Be careful not to allow the mulch to touch the plants’ stems.

The best mulch to use is an oak leaf or pine leaf.

Watering Azaleas for Success

During the first couple of months, give your Azalea bushes a deep, thorough soaking two or three times weekly.

In the third and fourth months, water deeply one time weekly.

When your Azalea bushes have survived their first growing season, they may be able to thrive on natural rain only.

If two weeks pass with no rain, water your Azalea bushes deeply and thoroughly.

Feeding Azaleas for Success

Give your Azalea bushes their first feeding after a month has passed.

Use a fertilizer specially formulated for acid-loving plants such as rhododendrons, camellias, and Azaleas. More on Azalea fertilizer.

In addition to the basic nutrients usually found in plant foods, look for:

Manganese
Zinc
Iron

These micronutrients are essential to successful Azalea growth.

Keep the Soil Acidic

Every year in the springtime, check the soil’s pH level to make certain it stays acidic enough to keep your Azaleas happy.

Apply agricultural sulfur and/or use acid reacting fertilizers (e.g., ammonium nitrate or ammonium sulfate) to help keep the soil’s pH level low.

Azalea Planting | Home & Garden Information Center

Azaleas are among the most popular flowering shrubs grown in South Carolina. Good site selection and proper planting methods will make a difference in promoting healthy, vigorous plants.

Botanically, all azaleas are classified in the genus Rhododendron. The cultural requirements for azaleas and rhododendrons are basically the same, but their structural differences include the following characteristics:

True rhododendrons have 10 or more stamens, and the underside of the leaves may be scaly or have small dots.
Azaleas have five stamens; leaves do not have scales and often are covered with hairs.
True rhododendrons are usually evergreen (there are exceptions).
Most azaleas are deciduous, although most types used in the home landscape are evergreen.
True rhododendron flowers tend to be bell-shaped.
Most azalea flowers are funnel-form.

Types of Azaleas

There are numerous azalea varieties available in South Carolina. When choosing which azaleas to add to your landscape, it is important to consider whether a variety is adapted to the area in which it will be planted. Poorly adapted varieties often give poor results year after year.

There are both evergreen and deciduous types of azaleas. Although the evergreen type is more popular for use around the home, deciduous azaleas are excellent plants for woodland settings.

Evergreen: Evergreen azalea hybrids that grow well in South Carolina include Southern Indica, Kurume, Kaempferi, Satsuki, Gable, Glen Dale and the Encore™ series.

There are many varieties within each of the following groups, and bloom times will vary within each group, depending on the variety. Bloom times also are dependent upon weather, planting zone and the microclimate of the area in the landscape.

Southern Indica azaleas, or Southern Indian azaleas, are popular cultivars that have both large flowers and leaves. The blooming period begins in late March and extends to early April. They are vigorous, upright growers, often reaching heights of 7 to 10 feet or more. Popular varieties include ‘Formosa’ (magenta), ‘Mrs. G. G. Gerbing’ (pure white), ‘George L. Tabor’ (orchid pink), ‘Judge Solomon’ (light pink) and ‘Pride of Mobile’ (rose pink).

‘George L. Tabor’ Southern Indica azalea con sus flores grandes color rosa.
Joey Williamson, ©2013, HGIC, Clemson Extension

‘Mrs. G.G. Gerbing’ Southern Indica azalea with large white flowers.
Joey Williamson, ©2013, HGIC, Clemson Extension

Kurume azaleas are cold-hardy and adapted to all of South Carolina. They are compact plants that develop as much spread as height. Normal bloom occurs from late March to mid-April. Popular varieties include ‘Coral Bells’ (salmon pink), ‘Hinodegiri’ (vivid red), ‘Pink Pearl’ (clear pink) and ‘Snow’ (white). ‘Coral Bells’ is a very early blooming Kurume, and at bloom the plants are completely covered in small flowers.

Kaempferi azaleas have a taller, more upright growth habit than Kurume. They are highly cold-resistant, and flower in late April and early May. Kaempferi are generally not recommended for the coastal areas. Available varieties include ‘Anna Marie’ (white), ‘Cleopatra’ (light pink) and ‘Fedora’ (salmon pink).

‘Coral Bells’ Kurume azalea, an early bloomer, is completely covered in small coral-pink flowers.
Joey Williamson, ©2013, HGIC, Clemson Extension

Satsuki azaleas are hardy in all of South Carolina. Plants are low-growing with large, showy blooms from May to June. Some of the more popular varieties include ‘Bunkwa’ (pink), ‘Gumpo Pink’ (pink), ‘Gumpo White’ (white), ‘Higasa’ (deep rose-pink) and ‘Shinnyo-no-Tsuki’ (rose border with white center).

Gable hybrids are very cold-hardy and are generally not recommended for coastal areas. They grow to be about 2 to 4 feet tall and wide, and flowers bloom from April to May. Some of the popular varieties include ‘Rosebud’ (rose pink), ‘Rose Greely’ (white) and ‘Purple Splendor’ (purple).

Glen Dale hybrids grow to be about 4 to 6 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide. The bloom period varies, depending on the variety; some flower as early as March, while others do not flower until June. These azaleas are very cold-hardy and are generally not recommended for coastal areas. Popular varieties include ‘Morning Star’ (deep rose, early bloom), ‘Fashion ‘ (rose with dark blotch, mid-season bloom), ‘Glacier’ (white with pale green, mid-season bloom) and ‘ Aztec’ (peach red, late-bloom).

‘Gumpo Pink’ Satsuki azalea.
Auburn University azalea trials at Camp Hill

‘Glacier’ Glen Dale hybrid azalea.
Louis Williams, US National Arboretum

Encore™ series azaleas bloom twice a year, in the spring and again in late summer or fall.

Varieties vary widely in color, shape, size and exact bloom time, but all share the re-blooming habit. Common varieties include ‘Autumn Royalty’, ‘Autumn Rouge’, ‘Autumn Amethyst’ and ‘Autumn Cheer’. There are currently 29 varieties with colors including white, pink, red, coral, lavender and fuchsia.

‘Autumn Amethyst’ Encore azalea.
Joey Williamson, ©2012 HGIC, Clemson Extension

‘Autumn Coral’ Encore azalea.
Karen Russ, ©2006 HGIC, Clemson Extension

Sweet azalea (Rhododendron arborescens).
©Thomas G. Barnes.

Deciduous: Many deciduous azalea species are native to South Carolina and include sweet azalea, flame azalea, Piedmont azalea, Pinxterbloom azalea, plumleaf azalea, swamp azalea, Florida flame azalea, Oconee azalea, Alabama azalea, pinkshell azalea, coastal azalea, various selections of each species, and cultivars that are hybrid crosses of the different native species. Additionally, the ‘Knap Hill’ and ‘Exbury’ hybrids that were primarily bred in England and the Confederate series hybrids that were bred in Alabama are excellent deciduous azaleas for South Carolina. All of these hybrids have one or more native deciduous azaleas as parents.

Sweet azalea (R. arborescens) is a large, erect shrub that grows from 8 to 15 feet in height and width. Fragrant flowers are white to light pink and may bloom from May through July. Leaves may turn red in fall. Sweet azalea is generally not recommended for the Coastal Plain.

Flame azalea (R. calendulaceum) is loosely branched and upright, often growing more than 10 to 15 feet tall and wide. The non-fragrant flowers range in color from yellow to red and bloom from May to June. Fall leaf color is yellow to red. Flame azalea is not recommended for the Coastal Plain. ‘Tangerine Delight’ is a R. calendulaceum cross with glowing bright orange flowers and blooms in late April.

Piedmont azalea (R. canescens) is a large suckering shrub that grows 10 to 15 feet tall. Fragrant flowers range from white to pink to rose, blooming from late March to late April. The tube of the flower is often pink. A number of selections exist, with ‘Camilla’s Blush’ (a Maid in the Shade™ selection) the most popular. It has soft pink blossoms and a delightful fragrance.

Pinxterbloom azalea (R. periclymenoides) is a low-growing, suckering shrub that may grow to 10 feet tall, although the average height is 4 to 6 feet. Fragrant flowers vary in color from white to pale pink to deep violet, opening from April to May. Foliage is dull yellow in fall. An early blooming selection with pink flowers and rose pink buds is ‘Rosy Pink Nudiflorum’ which grows to 6 – 8 feet tall. The name Rhododendron periclymenoides is synonymous with R. nudiflorum.

Flame azalea (Rhododendron calendulaceum).
Millie Davenport, ©2006 HGIC, Clemson Extension

Piedmont azalea (Rhododendron canescens) growing wild at Callaway Gardens in GA.
Joey Williamson, ©2013 HGIC, Clemson Extension

‘Camilla’s Blush’ Piedmont azalea (Rhododendron canescens).
Joey Williamson, ©2013 HGIC, Clemson Extension

Pinxterbloom azalea (Rhododendron periclymenoides).
Joey Williamson, ©2013 HGIC, Clemson Extension

Swamp azalea (Rhododendron viscosum).
©J.S. Peterson. USDA NRCS NPDC. USDA ARS National Arboretum, Washington, DC. June 27, 2003.

Plumleaf azalea (R. prunifolium) grows 8 to 10 feet tall. Flowers are orange-red to red and bloom later than most azaleas in July and August.

Swamp azalea (R. viscosum) grows from 3 to 15 feet tall. Flowers are white, sometimes pink, and are clove-scented. Bloom begins mid-May to June. Swamp azalea grows in damp or wet soil. ‘Summer Eyelet’ is a swamp azalea selection with spice-scented white blooms in July and grows to 6 feet tall.

Florida flame azalea or Florida azalea (R. austrinum) is an excellent landscape plant with heat tolerance. This species was used in the breeding of the Confederate series to provide both vigor and the ability to grow well in the heat on the coast. The flowers are gold with shades of orange and are fragrant. The tube of the flower is often flushed with orange-red color. There are number of selections of Florida flame azalea, such as ‘Lisa’s Gold’ with bright gold flowers in early April (10 to 12 feet tall), ‘Firecracker’ with striking orange blooms with a touch of red (8 feet tall), and ‘Rushin’s Austrinum’ which has bright yellow flowers in mid-April (8 to 10 feet tall). All of the selections have wonderful fragrances. ‘Kelsey’s Glow’ is a R. austrinum cross which has bright yellow blooms with reddish hues in mid-April and grows from 10 to 12 feet tall.

Oconee azalea (R. flammeum) is a very heat tolerant native with flowers that may range from yellowish- orange to orange to deep red. The flowers appear in early April, but are not fragrant. ‘Lucky Lady’ is a R. flammeum cross with vibrant red flowers in mid-April and grows to 6 to 8 feet tall.

Alabama azalea (R. alabamense) has snowy white flowers with a prominent yellow blotch. The plants are low growing and spread by stolons or underground stems. They bloom in mid-April to May, and the flowers have a lemon-spice fragrance.

Florida flame azalea (Rhododendron austrinum) with bright golden orange flowers and deep orange floral tubes.
Joey Williamson, ©2013 HGIC, Clemson Extension

Oconee azalea (Rhododendron flammeum).
Joey Williamson, ©2013 HGIC, Clemson Extension

Alabama azalea (Rhododendron alabamense) with white, fragrant flowers.
Joey Williamson, ©2013 HGIC, Clemson Extension

Coastal azalea (R. atlanticum) is native along the Eastern seaboard coast and is a low-growing, stoloniferous plant (that is, it spreads by underground stems). It spreads quickly in sandy soils, but spread is restricted in heavier clay soils. The white flowers are blushed with pink and have a yellow blotch.

Pinkshell azalea (R. vaseyi) is a rare native with delicate pink to white flowers and is one of the first to bloom in the spring. This species typically grows at higher elevations.

Many hybrids exist among the various native deciduous azaleas. Some may be natural crosses, but many are bred. One impressive hybrid is ‘Kennell’s Gold’ ((R. atlanticum x R. nudiflorum) x R. austrinum), which has golden yellow flowers with pale orange floral tubes. This hybrid will grow from 12 to 15 feet tall and flowers in early April.

Other crosses of native azaleas found in the landscape trade for sale are:

‘My Mary’, is a cross of (R. atlanticum x R. periclymenoides) x R. austrinum and has large yellow fragrant flowers. It blooms in April and grows to 8 feet tall.
‘Nacoochee Princess’, which is a R. atlanticum x R. periclymenoides hybrid, has large, white fragrant flowers with a slight tint of pink. This hybrid will grow from 8 to 10 feet tall.

‘Kennell’s Gold’ hydrid azalea (Rhododendron atlanticum x R. nudifloum x R. austrinum).
Joey Williamson, ©2013 HGIC, Clemson Extension

‘Sautee Sunset’ is a R. flammeum x R. alabamense hybrid with peachy-pink flowers with a soft yellow throat. It will grow from 6 to 8 feet tall.
‘Darlin’s Dream’ is a R. canescens x R. alabamense cross and has white flowers with lavender-pink edging and a golden yellow throat. It blooms in mid-April and grows from 10 to 12 feet tall.

Knap Hill and Exbury hybrids are the result of crosses involving several species. They grow 8 to 12 feet tall with a spread almost as wide. Boldly colored flowers bloom from April to May. Flower colors range from white to cream, yellow, pink, orange or red; many colors are very bold. Knap Hill and Exbury hybrids are not recommended for the Coastal Plain. One of the most heat-tolerant and popular of the Knap Hill hybrids is ‘Gibralter’, which grows 6 to 8 feet tall and blooms in mid-April with fragrant, vivid flame-orange flowers with ruffled petals.

The Confederate series of azaleas include 11 cultivars that were bred in Alabama, with ‘Admiral Semmes’, ‘Stonewall Jackson’ and ‘Frederick O. Douglass’ being some of the most popular. The cultivars of the Confederate series have the Florida flame azalea (R. austrinum) as one of their parents, with the result that these azaleas have greater vigor and more heat tolerance than the Knap Hill and Exbury hybrids. The Confederate series of azaleas may even be grown on the coast because of this greater heat tolerance.

‘Admiral Semmes’ is the most heat tolerant, is fast growing to 4 feet tall, and has very fragrant, large yellow blooms.

‘Frederick O. Douglass’ has fragrant, white and soft pink petals with a yellow throat.
‘Stonewall Jackson’ has fragrant, medium- orange blooms.

‘Frederick O. Douglass’ Confederate series hybrid azalea.
Joey Williamson, ©2013 HGIC, Clemson Extension

Buying Plants

Azaleas are usually sold as container-grown plants. They are occasionally available as balled-and-burlapped (B&B). Buy plants that are well-branched and sturdy. Those that have weak, spindly growth usually have a poor root system.

Planting Sites

Site selection is very important. Azaleas prefer light to moderate shade. In spring, flowers last longer on plants in filtered sun than those in full sun. This is especially true of late-flowering plants. Azaleas located in full sun are more susceptible to lace bugs than those grown in partial shade. Heavy shade, however, causes weak growth and a reduction in flower production. In winter, azaleas in partial shade usually suffer less cold injury to both the plants and flowers.

Azaleas planted under pine trees generally do well, as the moderate filtered shade and acidic soil are ideal conditions for vigorous growth. Those planted under shallow-rooted trees (maple, ash, some oaks) have difficulty competing with these other trees for moisture and nutrients. If the landscape does not have an area with filtered shade, then choose a planting site that will receive morning sun and afternoon shade.

Planting Time

Container-grown azaleas can be planted any time of year, provided they are watered properly. Most are bought and planted in spring when in flower. Planting in spring, however, requires special attention to watering to ensure survival through the heat of summer. Buying and planting in fall allows the plant to become better established before next year’s hot weather arrives. The disadvantage to fall planting is that you cannot actually see the plant in bloom.

Container-grown plants may be root-bound. If you notice roots circling the outside of the root ball after removing the plant from the container, make three or four cuts (equally spaced, a quarter-inch deep) from the top of the soil mass to the bottom with a sharp knife. Roots will be encouraged to spread into the soil and water can penetrate into the root ball.

When planting balled-and-burlapped plants, remove any wire or nylon strings or straps from the root ball and trunk. The burlap can be left around the root ball but should be pulled away 6 to 8 inches from the top. Check to be sure there is no plastic inside the burlap. Remove any plastic or artificial burlap before planting.

Preparing the Soil

Azaleas grow best in acid (4.5 – 6.0 pH), well-drained soils high in organic matter. Before planting have the soil tested and adjust the pH according to soil test results.

Azaleas are shallow-rooted plants that are easily damaged by excessive soil moisture. When planted in poorly drained soils, azaleas do not receive the oxygen required for healthy growth and often develop root rot diseases.

Organic Amendments

Organic amendments such as composted products are applied to soils to improve the nutrient and water-holding capacity of soils, or, in general terms, to improve soil tilth. Research has shown that when adding organic matter to a soil, it is best to incorporate it throughout the rooting zone as opposed to placing it in the planting hole. By incorporating an amendment uniformly in the soil, the entire rooting area becomes a uniform growing environment for roots. Azaleas do not tolerate wet soils, so it is important to avoid this problem by digging and amending a large area when planting them.

On the other hand, when a planting hole alone is amended, the structure of the soil in the hole can differ significantly from that of the surrounding native soil, if an excessive amount or the wrong type of amendment is added. This can encourage the roots to stay within the confines of the hole and discourages them from entering the surrounding native soil, especially if a perfectly round planting hole is dug.

Hand dug planting hole with notched walls to encourage root spread into surrounding soil.
Joey Williamson, ©2012 HGIC, Clemson Extension

Good drainage is essential for azaleas. Organic matter added to the soil improves drainage in clay soils and will increase a sandy soil’s ability to retain water and nutrients. Some types of organic materials and the amount added can also upset the water equilibrium between the surrounding native soil and the soil in the hole. Fine-textured organic matter such as peat moss, placed in the planting hole can act like a sponge in a bathtub, holding too much moisture after rain or irrigation. Coarser-textured material, such as composted pine bark, is less likely to hold excess moisture. In heavy clay soils, use a shovel or mattock to notch out the sides of the round planting hole. This will enable growing roots to more easily enter the surrounding soil.

Organic matter should comprise approximately 10 to 20 percent of the total soil volume. For example, preparing a bed 8 inches deep requires the addition of about 1 to 2 inches of organic matter such as compost, leaf mold, or composted pine bark. Drainage can be improved in clay soils by deep tilling prior to adding organic matter.

Composted materials immediately provide organic matter to the soil. Do not use uncomposted bark products as amendments. Freshly milled bark that has not been composted will slowly rob plants of nitrogen when used as an amendment. As microorganisms in the soil feed on bark and decompose it, they will use nitrogen in the soil. Also, the pH of the soil often drops dramatically below the desirable range when uncomposted materials are used as amendments.

Well-composted organic products have a rich, earthy smell, a crumbly appearance, and the original organic materials are no longer recognizable. For the best choices of composted material, choose either well decomposed material from your home compost pile, or purchase composted pine bark. The composted pine bark may still contain some small bark chips, but this can aid in improving the internal drainage in fine-textured clay soils. Additionally, composted pine bark may help suppress certain soil- borne disease-causing organisms (root rots).

Plant Spacing

The area of the bed should be large enough to accommodate the plants at maturity and space for the plants on the outside to spread their roots. Information on mature plant size may be on the tag attached to the plant at purchase, but you may have to inquire with the salesperson or look this information up in a book.

When planting two or more types of plants together, add their ultimate (mature) spreads together and divide by the number of plants to calculate their spacing. For example, if planting an azalea with a mature spread of 4 feet with another type of shrub whose mature spread is 6 feet, the planting distance between them is 5 feet (4 + 6 divided by 2). Some “common sense” adjustments may have to be made at times when expected growth rate and plant spread may be reduced because of less than ideal conditions, or if vigorous and slow-growing plants are planted together.

After calculating the area of the bed, dig the entire bed 6 to 8 inches deep. If you choose to add organic matter to improve drainage, mix in 1 to 2 inches of composted pine bark throughout the bed prior to planting.

Planting

Place each plant in the bed based on the space needed for growth to its mature size. For each plant, dig a hole only as deep as the root ball. The top of the root ball should be level with (or just slightly higher than) the ground level. It should never be lower than ground level.

Tamp down the area on which the root ball will rest to give it some firm footing. This will also prevent it from sinking below the level of the soil. After planting, lightly firm the amended soil around the roots. Mulch plants and then water them well to eliminate air pockets. Do not apply commercial fertilizers into the soil or around the plant at planting. However, a small quantity of a complete organic fertilizer may be mixed throughout the backfill soil to provide the nutrients for enhanced root growth. Premium brands of organic fertilizers have added beneficial bacteria that will colonize the root system of newly planted shrubs and aid in nutrient uptake, disease prevention and stimulate root growth. Follow product label directions.

For single plants, dig a planting hole the same depth as the root ball and two to three times wider than the area to be covered by the branches of the plant you are setting. Place the plant in the center of the planting hole (be sure the top of the root ball is level with or higher than the ground level). Shape a ring of soil about 3 inches high and 2 feet from the main stem to direct the flow of rainwater to the plant.

If the chosen planting site is not well-drained, prepare a raised bed. Elevate the area to ensure good surface and internal drainage. Dig a shallow hole (or planting area) so that the top of the root ball is not at ground level but elevated several inches above ground level. Build up around the root ball with topsoil.

Most soils in South Carolina are acidic enough for optimum growth of azaleas except for soils along the coast, and possibly around the foundations of new homes. Discarded mortar in areas around new construction often causes the pH to become too basic for azaleas. This soil should be removed and replaced with new soil before planting azaleas. Have soil tested to determine pH and fertilizer requirements.

Mulching

Finally, apply 3-inch thick layer of organic mulch, such as compost, pine straw, ground up leaves, or pine bark around the plants (or throughout the entire bed). Mulch will help moderate soil temperatures, conserve moisture and discourage weeds. Pull the mulch away from the main stem to prevent disease.

Watering

Watering newly planted azaleas is essential. This is especially true when planting in spring. Their shallow roots will dry out quickly during periods of limited rainfall. When the soil appears dry, water thoroughly to wet the soil to a depth of 8 to 12 inches. Avoid overhead irrigation to reduce incidence of disease. Soaker hoses or drip irrigation that applies water slowly to the base of plants is recommended.

Be mindful that azaleas do not like wet soils. It is important to reach a balance of regular, deep watering and good drainage to promote a healthy plant.

For further information on the care of azaleas, refer to HGIC 1059, Azalea Care. More information on disease and insect problems on azaleas is available in HGIC 2050, Azalea & Rhododendron Diseases (includes disease-resistant varieties), and HGIC 2051, Azalea & Rhododendron Insects.

Para obtener la versión en español de esta hoja informativa, HGIC 1058S, Plantación de Azalea

Originally published 07/00

If this document didn’t answer your questions, please contact HGIC at [email protected] or 1-888-656-9988.

How to grow and care for Azalea

In the wild Azalea grows in China, Japan, USA and is a gorgeous perennial shrub. It grows to a minimum of 30 cm, and in some cases can reach 3 m. The leaves of the azalea are small, there are deciduous and evergreen varieties. As for the flowers, their variety is impressive - flat, plain, terry, variegated, funnel-shaped ... Lush flowering pleases up to 10 weeks!

A few decades ago, the garden azalea was considered a greenhouse or indoor plant, relatively recently it began to be grown in gardens. nine0005

Rhododendrons and azaleas: what's the difference?

Both of these amazingly beautiful plants belong according to the taxonomy to Vereskovs. Interestingly, many scientists are sure that azalea was mistakenly identified as an independent genus.

Important: It should be noted that there is no clear difference between these plants.

The key distinguishing feature is the stamens. So, in azalea flowers, their number usually coincides with the number of petals, i.e. about five stamens, and a rhododendron has about 2 stamens per petal - a flower has ten or more in total. The exception is 2 types of rhododendron - 7 stamens. nine0005

Rhododendron flowers near

Azalea in the garden

It is almost impossible for a non-botanist to distinguish an azalea from a rhododendron by other features.

Popular varieties

Under natural conditions, you can find many varieties of azaleas, of which we will single out the following in popularity: The flowers are large white, double.

Petticoat - grows up to 50 cm, pleases with flowering in late autumn. Its flowers are pale pink. Very plentiful watering is important. nine0034

Ledikanense - the flowering period falls in the spring, the flowers are purple. Likes exceptionally shady places.

Kermesina Rose - popular for its beautiful pink flowers, which have a red pattern, and the edges of the petals stand out with a white border.

Petticoat

Kermesina Rose

How to plant an azalea

This is a capricious plant that grows well only on loose, rather acidic soils. nine0005

Planting order:

A planting hole is dug, its depth is 50 cm.
A drainage of sand mixed with expanded clay is laid at the bottom to further acidify the soil. You can also use broken bricks, a layer of 15 cm is enough. Lime materials are prohibited - this is fraught with alkalization of the soil and the death of the azalea.
The earth should be mixed with peat, a small amount of humus, and coarse sand. This will greatly improve the permeability of the soil. nine0034
Pour the prepared mixture onto the drainage and place the seedling there. It is important to keep the level of the neck under control - slightly above the surface of the earth.
It is necessary to cover the roots with soil, tamp it down and water the seedling.
The area around the azalea is recommended to be mulched. You can use pine needles, peat or crushed bark for this task.

Azalea planting procedure

Suitable mulch for growing azalea

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in Ukrainian climate grows only in partial shade;
all deciduous varieties are advised to be planted under the crown of large trees;
The best companions for these shrubs are yews, oaks, larch or spruce ;
neighbors cannot be: alder, poplar, maple, as their superficial roots compete with azaleas for moisture, nutrition;
Shrubs cannot be planted on the south side of buildings.

Important: After 3 weeks, fertilize the seedling. Then top dressing is done after about 20 days.

Suitable coniferous companions for azalea bushes

How to transplant an azalea

Transplanting a shrub is exactly the same as planting it, the best time is early spring. Near the bush it is worth making a side, consisting of earth or moss. This in winter will help to delay the snow a little, as well as protect the roots of a capricious plant from frost. nine0005

How to propagate azalea

This beautiful plant is propagated in many ways: by seeds, cuttings, as well as layering, dividing the bush.

Usually seed propagation is rare, as it takes too long to flower.

The easiest way is to securely fix the lateral shoot with wire as close as possible to the ground, sprinkle it with earth. Soon it will take root, then it can be separated. This should be done in the spring, before the sap flow begins. nine0005

Azalea cuttings

Azalea seeds

Azalea propagation by cuttings

Note that propagation by cuttings is a laborious task. It takes at least 1.5 months, and sometimes lasts up to 4 months. Cuttings can be carried out in the summer, but it is best to do this in early spring.

Experienced gardeners advise to proceed as follows:

Cut the apical cuttings from 10 cm in size, leave 2-3 developed leaves, and remove the lower ones along with the apical bud. nine0034
Sections should preferably be treated with a growth stimulator.
All cuttings should be buried only 3 cm deep, well moistened. Use a mixture of peat and sand for these purposes.
Then a mini-greenhouse is created, for example, cuttings are covered with large cups or plastic bottles without a bottom.
After a week, you can air the plants for 15 minutes a day.

For successful rooting, it is important to keep the temperature at least +20°C and water the cuttings on time. Then they are transplanted first into a container with suitable acidic soil, and after 1 year they are planted already in the garden. nine0005

Azalea stalk near

Azalea sprouting

Azalea with fully developed leaves

Garden azalea care

In order to get a really profuse flowering, you can not do without special fertilizer for azaleas and rhododendrons . In the process of bud formation, in addition to this top dressing, phosphorus-potassium fertilizer is added. As soon as flowering is over, substances such as phosphorus and potassium must be introduced into the soil.

Important: If complex fertilizers are used, check that the product contains no chlorine or lime.

In addition, during the growing season it is necessary to carefully weed the area a couple of times.

How to properly water an azalea

Azalea loves abundant watering. Hurry up to water the plant as soon as the surface of the soil dries out. Citric acid is added monthly (a few drops per 2 liters of water or 1 tsp are enough). nine0005

This shrub loves high humidity. Therefore, regularly spray it with a spray bottle or place containers of water near it. After the arrival of autumn, it is worth reducing watering.

Watering the azalea bush

Fertilizing the azalea bush

How to prune the azalea

The shrub needs pruning every year. This helps to renew it and stimulate growth.

Usually pruning of bushes is carried out as follows:

In the spring, the so-called sanitary pruning is carried out - diseased, dry shoots are removed. nine0034
When the most beautiful buds have faded, they make a formative pruning - they shorten too long shoots and those that thicken the shrub.
It is recommended to cut the shoots 1/3 across the entire bush to create an even crown.

It is a slow growing shrub that reaches maturity at four years of age so young plants do not form.

Azalea diseases and their control

Azaleas are predominantly disease resistant. Can harm the plant: scale insects, mealybugs, various mites. nine0005

Leaf drop (except for deciduous variety) may occur as a result of incorrect planting, namely, in calcareous soil or in direct sun. Drying of the plant most often occurs due to insufficient moisture.

Azalea in garden landscape design

Group plantings look the most decorative, but you should not place evergreen azaleas next to deciduous ones.

Try planting perennials in front of the azalea, they will enhance the beauty of the plants with their discreet appearance, for example, with small white flowers. Another great option is ferns, hostas, small conifers. nine0005

If there is a stream or an artificial reservoir in the garden, then plant an azalea near them - you won't lose! The blooming effect will be even more amazing thanks to the reflection in the water.

Azalea combined with action and cornflowers

Azalea composition and hostas

Garden azaleas are a very grateful crop that responds to care with lush flowering and active growth. These shrubs will be a great decoration for any site!

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agricultural technology, azalea, ornamental shrubs, garden design, pruning, rhododendron, garden creation, fertilizers, garden exotics

when to plant and how to care for them

Posted by Yuki | Comments: 0

Growing an azalea is not easy, this plant has some whims. If properly cared for, then it will delight the eye with wonderful flowering. To do this, you need to familiarize yourself with how to plant azalea flowers, how to care for them.

Contents:

What season to plant, how to choose the soil and prepare for planting? nine0034
Suitable temperature, lighting and watering
Care after planting
Growing and care measures

What season to plant, how to choose soil and prepare for planting?

The first step is to choose the right landing site. Azalea will not be able to fully develop under the direct rays of the sun. Therefore, it is necessary to plant it in shaded areas. It may also depend on the type of plant. The flower prefers acidic soil. It will not be able to grow on loam or calcareous soil. If you plant it in such a land, the plant will not take root and will die. nine0005

Therefore, you should pay attention to the soil, because sometimes the owners choose a good place, but the flower dies, because the soil is not suitable. If there is no necessary land in the summer cottage, you should not give up. The top layer can be done by yourself. To do this, peat or a special mixture is introduced into the soil, which is intended for azalea.

Once the place has been chosen, it is worth starting the actual landing. This procedure is carried out in the spring. First you need to dig holes. It is worth calculating that seedlings fit into them 15 cm deeper. At the bottom it is worth creating drainage. nine0005

Suitable temperature, lighting and watering

The following rules should be followed:

Watering is especially important for azaleas. The plant does not tolerate drying out of the soil. But you also need to make sure that there is no stagnation of water.
Warm water is best for irrigation. It is better to defend it initially. Rain water is also ideal.
Experienced gardeners advise to acidify the watering liquid. To do this, add a little citric acid to the water. In this way, the acidity of the soil will not decrease. But do not water the plant with too cold water. In autumn, watering should be reduced. nine0034

We recommend using peat soil for growing azaleas. But if it dries out, it turns into a hard lump, so there is poor absorption of water. In this case, it is worth placing the pot in a container of water for a couple of hours. If the flower has already reached a huge size, then you can use a pallet with great depth. It is forbidden to loosen the soil, as the plant has a thin rhizome. Therefore, it is easy to damage it. Azaleas are often grown in cool greenhouses.

In this case, you can put ice on top of the ground in winter. It will slowly melt, and the soil will gradually be moistened. But you should not carry out such manipulation in a warm room, as the temperature drop will negatively affect the flowering of the plant.

Azalea has certain temperature requirements. In winter, the temperature should be around 12-14 degrees. But if you provide proper care, then the plant can develop at 22 degrees. If in the summer the flower was put out in the garden, then they are transferred to the room until the heating season begins. Azalea does not tolerate direct sunlight. nine0005

Video about azalea growing:

In summer, the open air has a positive effect on it. The main thing is that the sun does not burn it. Experienced gardeners immerse a plant with a pot in the ground. Summer rain is useful for a flower. If the climate is mild, then you can grow some varieties in the open field. In winter, it is worth creating frost protection.

Care after planting

You can't just plant a plant and not take care of it. Azalea needs attention:

Particular attention should be paid initially to watering. After planting, 3 weeks should pass when the plant is first watered with acidified water. This watering is repeated once a month. It is necessary to ensure that the soil does not dry out, especially in drought. Otherwise, it will affect the creation of future buds.
Experienced gardeners advise spraying the entire bush if the weather is too dry.
It is worth remembering that the plant has a superficial rhizome. Therefore, it is not necessary to carry out weeding. Remove weeds carefully by hand. nine0034
Fertilizers are applied after 4 weeks from planting. Further top dressing is repeated every 3 weeks. For this manipulation, complex fertilizers are suitable, which include all mineral fertilizers.

It is necessary to form a bush. If it grows too large, pruning is carried out. Do not disturb young azaleas. Mature plants are pruned after flowering. Azalea branches are poisonous, so all procedures should be carried out with gloves.