Azaleas: A simple Guide for Happy Blooms

Azaleas

A Simple Guide for Happy Blooms

  Azaleas have been a long-time southern staple in most yards and landscapes. Most people recognize their abundant spring blooms even if they don’t know much about them. As the blooms fade and you are left with just an attractive shrub you may be longing for the color that was there in the not so distant past. 
It is these azaleas that are so lovingly planted in front of your grandmother’s house and are now blocking every window within 10 feet. Sadly these are also the ones that get dug up and discarded because of their over achievement in the growth department. Now, don’t get me wrong, these take many years to reach their full potential but the next generation is not amused when they inherit these beauties. Thankfully there are alternatives now that grow much smaller. Some actually as small as twelve inches at maturity. This gives you many more options when deciding where you want to plant.

   When considering azaleas for inclusion in your landscape there are many factors to contemplate. You want to be mindful of your space. Be sure to pay close attention to the growing habits of your selection. You don’t want to put an azalea in a corner area with tight spacing if its mature size is going to be 6 ft tall and 5 ft wide.  Lighting is also a huge consideration. If your area is full sun you may love one variety but that variety may not fare well. And you must always think about soil drainage. You definitely do not want to try to plant an azalea in a swampy area and likewise, you don’t want to try to get it to grow in a barren wasteland where even the grass has packed up and left the area. Within this article, we will try to make it easy and painless to decide what is best for your area to bring years of enjoyment and beauty. Hopefully, without it landing on the demolition list for the next generation.

 

 Deciduous azaleas are those that lose their leaves prior to the onset of winter. These are a good choice for areas that are prone to more extreme heat and are cold hardy in zones 4 through 9. While all azaleas do well in partial shade or filtered light, some deciduous varieties can tolerate more direct sunlight. Azaleas that are grown in full sun tend to grow just a bit smaller and their blooms will fade much faster. Generally, these azaleas only bloom one time per growing season.
  

 Re-blooming azaleas keep their foliage year-round.  Most of these varieties are hardy in zones 5 through 8. These will usually thrive in more sun. You can choose a Bloom-A-Thon or Encore variety and enjoy blooms two or three times within a growing season.









   The perfect location for your azalea will be one where the plant is sheltered from harsh winds, dappled light, and good drainage. Fall is the best time to plant your azalea. However, you can plant anytime during the colder months if the ground is not frozen. If your azalea is going into new ground, be sure to till or loosen the soil to a depth of about eighteen inches and add organic compost to the soil, taking care to mix it well. Poor drainage is a sure-fire way to kill your azalea since they have a shallow root system, you don’t want to smother them with heavy clay or too much mulch. Be sure to plant your azalea with the root ball one to two inches above the ground level. Backfill the hole with loose amended soil.  You will want to finish off your planting with a light layer of mulch. Not more than 2 inches and be sure not to pile it around the trunk of the azalea as it may cause rot.
    

 If planted properly, azaleas are low maintenance. Azaleas need very little pruning. If you feel the need to shape them up a bit, you can do so after they are done blooming. Only taking off the leggiest branches and pinching back the tips will encourage fullness. Avoid late summer pruning as the evergreen varieties will be setting buds for the next growing season.  During dry weather, you may need to provide extra irrigation. Water your azalea deeply when you water so that the ground is soaked through the root system. You will also want to water well before the first hard freeze. Fertilize after blooming in the spring with a timed-release fertilizer. Never put lime on an azalea. 

  Most problems that arise with azaleas are due to poor soil, improper drainage or watering or aggressive pruning. If you are having issues with your azalea and none of these are a factor, there are a few other things that can cause problems for your azaleas, such as lace bugs. These are the most common pests that affect azaleas, causing yellowing foliage. You can usually find tiny black bugs on the underside of the leaves. This can be treated with insecticidal soap, available at most garden centers and farm supply stores.
Powdery mildew is another problem that can damage your azalea causing leaf drop. This is treated with fungicidal sprays.

Azaleas can offer up years of beauty and satisfaction for even the pickiest of plant connoisseurs. Once you decide on the best fit for your space and preferences just plant and enjoy.

For more interesting facts and information check out this book:

"American Azaleas"
By: L. Clarence Towe

Available on Google Books and Amazon

Happy Planting!!!