Avoid planting in winter, though mid autumn can be an option in areas where there is adequate shelter from drying o r unsettling wind. Azaleas do best in spots sheltered from harsh winds. A woodland area is an ideal planting location for azaleas; it naturally provides the … Older plants that have become leggy may benefit from pruning branches from the main trunk in staggered lengths. Don't go overboard with this early-season pruning. This should be repeated in January. Ms. Raine is hoping to have her first novel published soon. She has been a home gardener and professional gardener since 2008. Native azaleas grow like small trees and don't need pruning. Smaller varieties look best at the front of a border, or in pots. ", Unlock expert answers by supporting wikiHow. It can produce leaves that are smaller than normal or that turn yellow and drop early. Soil Requirements Azaleas prefer a well-draining soil with an acidic pH of 5.0 to 6.0. Most are deciduous (lose leaves in the winter) and are able to tolerate warmer temperatures. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. Azaleas and rhododendrons may be transplanted at any time during the growing season, but they transplant most successfully during fall or early spring, when … Writing a cover letter can be EASY. If you really can’t stand to see another ad again, then please consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. Do not store them for more than a few days. Pick the right azalea for your garden. How can I tell how much sun my azaleas should get? My heart's desire is a linear grouping of native azaleas along the front of my new home, high in the north Georgia mountains. 'Golden Lights' grows to a height and width of 3 to 6 feet, blooms in yellow and is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 7. Plant the azaleas in fall for well-established, blooming plants the following spring. I dug several up and moved them over 20 miles away. Thank you! ", "Fantastic! Knowing when and how to fertilize azaleas is important to ensure the best blooms and a healthy disease resistant plant. ", "The video showed just what to do and which fertilizer to use. Azaleas will grow in more open situations, but they prefer morning sun, with protection from hot afternoon sun in summer. They like a mildly acidic, organically enriched soil (pH 5-6), so avoid applying lime or fresh manures. Do not plant them where unsupervised children or pets may try to eat them. Read on for tips from our horticulture reviewer on how to prepare the soil before planting. Evergreen azaleas do well in partial shade with some wind protection. Plant bare-root azaleas in late winter or early spring as soon as they arrive. Plant deciduous and evergreen azaleas while they are dormant. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Cover young azaleas in extreme conditions. This article has been viewed 496,339 times. How can I tell if my azaleas are going to survive where I am? These azaleas grow from 3 … Enter your zip code on the website and click "Find.". Providing Azaleas With Proper Soil. In general, "Rhododendron" is used for those species that have large, evergreen, leathery leaves. just UN-complicated what I thought would be a byzantine process! News Release Distributed 03/25/11By LSU AgCenter Horticulturists Dan Gill, Kyle Huffstickler and Allen Owings Azaleas are Louisiana’s most popular shrub in home landscapes. Pictures were a nice touch also. ", especially of plants like azaleas. Finding a job is hard. do not fertilize until after the last frost. Yes, you can use the clippings from the roots to start to grow new plants. They're quite easy to plant and, if you care for them properly, you'll be greeted by their dazzling blooms year after year. His one comment scared me, "Don't kill it". This article received 20 testimonials and 96% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. Azaleas are shallow-rooted plants that are easily damaged by excessive soil moisture. Azaleas (Rhododendron spp.) By using this service, some information may be shared with YouTube. Can I plant azaleas in a pot and put it on an apartment patio? ", also like a similar set of instructions for planting azaleas in pots. Plants will deteriorate if they suffer long periods in hot, dry conditions. They are hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3 to 9 in general, although this varies depending on the species and cultivar. After reading this article I feel, "Very helpful. This article was co-authored by Katie Gohmann. Hot pink, red, and white azaleas brighten many southern yards each spring. Prune deciduous azaleas while they are dormant and leafless. Read on for tips from our horticulture reviewer on how to prepare the soil before planting. are shrubby plants with showy flowers and a neat and tidy growing habit. Please consider making a contribution to wikiHow today. So now that you know how to plant azaleas, it's time to roll up your sleeves and get to planting! Read the plant tag … Avoid fungal infections by using a fungicidal spray if petal blight is noticed (petals turn brown and mushy), or leaf gall shows up (small white spores that may turn brown). Best Time to Plant. Till it to a depth of several feet to break it up, then mix in the other well-draining matter. unlocking this expert answer. ", to surprise her with these azaleas I bought, so I plan to do it all by myself. In warm, mild-winter climates of USDA zones 8 and 9, B&B and container-grown … Different types of azaleas have slightly different needs, so pay attention to what type you pick out to ensure you'll be satisfied with the results. Azaleas look best when allowed to grow to their natural mounded shape. There are three main types of azalea - the indica hybrids, the karume hybrids and the mollis hybrids. Moisten the packing material around the roots if it has begun to dry; seal them in a clear, plastic bag; and put them in the refrigerator until they can be planted. I hope, "My husband gave me a beautiful azalea for Mothers Day, and your site told me pretty much all I needed to know about, "My husband gave me a beautiful azalea for Mothers Day, and this told me pretty much all I needed to know about. Do not fertilize azaleas. Wet the azalea before planting. ", just uncomplicated what I thought would be a byzantine process! Evergreen azaleas are dense, usually shapely plants; heading back the occasional wayward branch restores symmetry. References ", confident on what to do with this shrub. Although fall is considered the best time to plant azaleas, the vast majority of azaleas are planted in spring. ", planting it outside. The article on choosing, planting and caring for azaleas, "I really benefited from the step-by-step instructions. Hunker may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Newly planted azaleas require routine watering the first year, but once established, do not require frequent watering. Stick with one type of azalea or incorporate several different colors and species into the garden for variety. Azaleas grow best in acid (4.5 – 6.0 pH), well-drained soils high in organic matter. Dip the root ball in a bucket of water, or use a hose to lightly dampen it, before setting the azalea into the ground. They must be planted after the ground thaws but before deciduous trees in the area begin to put on leaves. Not only can eating any part of the plant lead to poisoning, but honey made by bees feeding on azaleas can become poisonous as well! Placed them back in the ground and they never missed a season. ", fertilizing. You can use double rows 10 inches apart if space is limited. Plant deciduous and evergreen azaleas while they are dormant. This article has been viewed 496,339 times. The best time to plant azaleas is in spring and fall. Is leftover coffee good for plants in small doses? We know ads can be annoying, but they’re what allow us to make all of wikiHow available for free. Asian azaleas grow as shrubs and are available in two varieties, both of which are evergreen: The Azalea Society or your local nursery can make recommendations on the type of azalea to plant in your area. "Very informative, the step-by-step of how to plant the azalea is very helpful. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Can I transplant it after it blooms? Planting Zone: Most azaleas are hardy to planting zones 6-9, with a few varieties tolerating colder temperatures up to zone 4. Azaleas (Rhododendron spp. Dig down 2 feet deep, add compost to the soil and mix well. Please help us continue to provide you with our trusted how-to guides and videos for free by whitelisting wikiHow on your ad blocker. Mulch the plants every spring with 2-5 inches of pine bark chips to protect the roots and keep moist. Yes, but it is better if you give tea leftovers, because it provides more protein to the plant than coffee leftovers. I would, "I am a keen gardener but unsure of some plants and I bought an azalea. Often called Japanese azaleas, evergreen azaleas arose after several centuries of interbreeding native species in Japan. I didn't know I shouldn't fertilize after August. The best time for fertilizing azaleas is in the Spring (March/April) with one application of ericaceous continuous release plant feed. ", "Very informative, thank you. Give them plenty of water until the ground freezes and plant them in a partially shady, protected area to help prevent winter damage. Now I can go buy my azalea bushes and get to planting! Cover the ground around the azalea with mulch to help keep the soil moist and stabilize the temperature of the roots. Your support helps wikiHow to create more in-depth illustrated articles and videos and to share our trusted brand of instructional content with millions of people all over the world. No, well drained soil is a must with azaleas. Azaleas are in the same plant family as blueberries and other shrubs sometimes called "acid-loving" plants.To reach their full potential for health and beauty, azaleas and other acid-lovers need acidic soil with a pH range near 4.0 to 5.5. In USDA zones 8 and 9, they may have to be watered every couple days or even every day after they are planted if the soil is sandy and drains quickly. ", planting it outside. Plant B&B and container-grown azaleas as soon as possible if they are purchased later in the spring, in the summer or in early fall. Planting azaleas Azaleas prefer loose, moist, well-drained soil for their roots. If you want to plant azaleas, dig a hole that is deep enough to cover the root ball and the bottom of the plant. Azaleas (Rhododendron spp.) Azaleas prefer to grow in acidic soil; under taller shrubs and trees. Remove the dead flowers. Scratch the bark. Spring planting requires watering well. Can I plant an azalea in a pot on my porch? How far apart should the plants be spaced? I will be translating my mums to the full sun and azaleas, "I enjoyed it all. Fertilize sparingly and only when flower buds swell in early spring. Plant in an area of semi-shade - the dappled shade beneath open-branched trees is a favourite location. Native Azaleas grow best in an acid to slightly acidic soil ranging between 4.5 to 6.5 on the pH scale. Oh my... but thanks to you I think I'll be able to do a good job. In October, an application of Garden Gold which contains a wetting agent is recommended. Azaleas are vigorous plants and must be spaced properly to accommodate their mature plant size. Larger bushes require more space than smaller types. Evergreen varieties also keep your yard looking cheerful even through the winter months. The best time to plant azaleas is in late spring or early fall. Testing Soil pH. When planting azaleas, fill the hole with a 50/50 blend of existing soil and Miracle-Gro® Garden Soil for Trees & Shrubs. Repotting can then be done if necessary, increasing the pot size by no more than 2.5-5cm (1-2in) in diameter. If it's green underneath, it's still alive. Approved. are usually sold with their roots in soil, either in a container or balled and burlapped, but they are sometimes sold without soil on their roots, or bare root. Do not Fertilize after July as this will encourage foliage growth at the expense of flowers. I loved the pictures showing how to plant. Last Updated: October 4, 2020 See Step 1 to learn how to plant azaleas and keep them healthy for years to come. It is only if the plants show signs of nutritional deficiency or are growing too slowly that you may need to set up an azalea fertilizing schedule. ", "The planting and pruning tips helped a lot! Partial Shade: Plant azaleas in dappled sunlight, or in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade. Reannan Raine worked for 30 years in the non-profit sector in various positions. By using our site, you agree to our. Moisten the soil around their roots if it begins to dry before they can be planted. % of people told us that this article helped them. Prune no later than 3 weeks after the blooms have gone - otherwise, you'll be cutting away next year's flower growth. It helped me very much. Set the azalea upright in the hole and pat the soil around the roots, then gently water the plant and the soil. Plant them in a sunny spot that gets a good amount of afternoon shade. If you are planting more than one azalea, make sure the holes are space several feet apart. http://homeguides.sfgate.com/azalea-planting-zones-care-77532.html, http://rhodyman.net/rhodynho.php#anchor10S, http://www.southernliving.com/home-garden/gardens/azalea-plants-00400000065914/, http://rhodyman.net/rhodynho.php#anchor1077036, http://www.poison.org/articles/2015-mar/azaleas-and-rhododendrons, consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. When to Plant Azaleas Plant azaleas in early spring; just before the new growth starts begins. The indicas spot flower from autumn through winter, with their main flush in spring. Planting Location . Azalea Plants Are For Indoors And Outdoors? 1 In that range, specific nutrients azaleas need stay readily available. In very cold USDA zone 3 and 4 climates, fall planting should be done between mid-August and mid-September. If it's all brown instead of green on all of the stems, it's dead. Once planted, gently tamp the soil and water thoroughly. Thank you! Provide well-drained, humus-rich soil that is slightly acidic (pH 4.5–6). Most average garden soils fall between a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. My heart's desire is a linear grouping of native azaleas along the front of my new home, high in the north Georgia mountains. Thank you. Please consider making a contribution to wikiHow today. Soil pH is a measurement of the alkalinity or acidity of soil and is measured on … As I am a visual person, I found the guide, "Very good and helpful information about mums and azaleas. Search for "USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map." While these are not the best times to plant azaleas, they can survive as long as they are planted properly and watered often enough to keep the soil moist. It can cause the plant to bloom at the wrong time. To keep bushes compact, tip-pinch frequently, starting after flowering ends and continuing until mid-June. Try to keep the pH of the soil somewhat acidic with an ideal range of 4.5 - 5.5pH. If the soil doesn't drain well, you can mix it with compost or other organic matter in order to loosen it up. Use your hands to loosen the roots, then dip the root ball in a bucket of water. If the soil is heavy, mix it with as much as 50% organic matter, such as fine pine bark or rotted leaves, before using it to plant the azalea. It’s tempting to plant small bushes close together, but you will end up chopping down every other azalea bush if you do that. Indoors, grow azaleas in a well-ventilated room with dappled or indirect sunlight. Independent poison control center providing resources to prevent poisonings and save lives. Keep soil moist until winter. Don't prune too late in the year. This means I'll be planting more of these in different colors and varieties. Water evergreen azaleas like 'Gerard's Rose' (Rhododendron 'Gerard's Rose') right up until the ground freezes after planting in the fall. https://plantaddicts.com/blog/4-tips-for-growing-azaleas-in-pots Best time to plant is in autumn or early spring How to grow azaleas in a garden Choose a spot in the garden with semi-shade and that gets protection from the harsh afternoon sun. Enrich the soil with Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser. By creating an account you agree to the Hunker, The University of Maine Cooperative Extension Publications: Bulletin #2366, Selecting, Planting, and Caring for Trees and Shrubs in the Maine Landscape, University of Nebraska-Lincoln: UNL Extension: Hort Updata: Care of Bareroot Plants, Kentucky Woodlands Magazine: Toxic Plants, Illinois University Library: Veterinary Medicine Library: Rhododendron (Rhododendron spp. Now I think I can actually do this, and the azaleas will live to tell the tale. If you want to drastically change the shape of your azalea, wait until later in the summer. Every day at wikiHow, we work hard to give you access to instructions and information that will help you live a better life, whether it's keeping you safer, healthier, or improving your well-being. Water the plants during the summer. 'Gerard's Rose' grows to a height and width of 2 to 2 ½ feet, blooms in pink and is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8. Azaleas are hardy plants that don't need much care. Thank you! My azalea has been in our yard for six years. One comment scared me, "Don't kill it." It also helped with pruning and, "It proved the basic information needed for every stage of growth, as well as choosing the right azalea. "I'm a gardening virgin, seriously lacking in confidence. I'm a plant lover and grower, "I received a white azalea as a gift in March and now it's not looking so shabby. Before planting have the soil tested and adjust the pH according to soil test results. – The choice is yours. Katherine Gohmann is a Professional Gardener in Texas. There are hybrid descriptions and examples online or in local garden and landscaping shops. Azaleas grow in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 through 9, depending on the specific variety. This article was co-authored by Katie Gohmann. Remember that azaleas are poisonous. Azaleas naturally thrive at the edge of light pine woods. All parts of azaleas are highly toxic to people and animals when consumed. When choosing such soil amendments, avoid materials which may be alkaline or “hot” (containing fresh … Continue reading "Planting" There are deciduous azalea varieties that do well with full sun, so check into these if you don't have much shade available. After reading this article, I believe I am ready. In warm, mild-winter climates of USDA zones 8 and 9, B&B and container-grown azaleas should be planted between November and February. Deciduous azaleas like 'Golden Lights' (Rhododendron 'Golden Lights') are not prone to winter damage because they lose their leaves. ). Very complete and informative!". Fertilizing of these shrubs should take place in late spring to early fall. She has been a home gardener and professional gardener since 2008. Water it again the day after planting, then once a week after that. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. Now I think I can actually do this, and the azaleas will live to tell the tale. Grow outdoor azaleas in a sheltered spot in partial shade or full sun. Plant them in the fall immediately after the deciduous trees drop their leaves or in early spring before they begin to put on new leaves in the cooler USDA zones 3 to 7. Improper fertilizing can also cause the plant to bloom at the wrong time, so be sure to fertilize only if required. Many cultivars suit planting at the edge of a woodland border or shady area. Did you know you can read expert answers for this article? An azalea with a nutritional deficiency shows signs that it has a problem. ), which include both evergreen and deciduous varieties, may flower at any time from spring through summer, depending on the cultivar. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/44\/Plant-Azaleas-Step-1-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Plant-Azaleas-Step-1-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/44\/Plant-Azaleas-Step-1-Version-3.jpg\/aid1328145-v4-728px-Plant-Azaleas-Step-1-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"