A. Azaleas are one of the most
beautiful landscape plants for both foliage and flowers that is available
here on the Texas Gulf Coast. In the spring, azaleas show case an
incomparably spectacular mass of colorful flowers, and the rest of the year
they serve as a lush foliage plant in the landscape. However, as with all plants in the landscape, azaleas do have problems that can present themselves on occasion. To help identify the problem or problems specific to your azaleas, ask yourself the following questions: |
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Azaleas are a
source of springtime beauty and the Texas Gulf |
l. Did I fertilize?
Azaleas need adequate soil fertility so give them an
azalea-camellia-gardenia fertilizer once a month for the first three months
after they have completed their bloom cycle.
2. When did I prune?
Plants should be pruned with hand shears immediately after they have
bloomed. Pruning can be done any time up until the flower buds start to form
after mid-June. Pruning after flower bud formation commences will result in the
absence of flowers in the spring. Plants can be safely pruned up to one-third or
more of their height at one trimming.
3. Where are they located?
Full sun is not a spot where azaleas thrive and too much shade is a
primary cause of failure to bloom. They like filtered shade and do best with
morning sun and afternoon shade. They especially need some protection from our
hot July and August afternoons.
4. Are they planted too deeply?
Good drainage is necessary for azaleas. They do best in a raised bed
that is rich in organic matter (peat moss, compost, shredded pine bark, etc.).
Make sure the top of your root ball is 2-3 inches above the original soil line.
5. Are my azaleas showing signs of iron deficiency?
Look for yellow leaves with dark green veins, visible on the newest
growth near the tips of twigs. Treat at once with one of the several fertilizers
that contain iron along with a soil acidifier. Keep these iron products away
from painted and masonry surfaces since they stain.
6. Have I mulched?
Mulching is very important at all times of the year, particularly
after the initial planting. It will help retain soil moisture, improve aeration
and prevent freezing. Pine needles are excellent, especially when mixed with oak
leaves. Compost, shredded leaves and shredded pine bark are good mulches as
well.
7. How much did I water?
Azalea roots require good soil moisture levels but they will not
tolerate excessive soil moisture conditions. Careful watering is especially
important for new plants. When they become established, they will usually
survive with adequate rainfall. Since azalea roots are close to the surface and
can quickly dry out, a mulch is important to keep roots moist. One inch of
rainfall every ten days is usually sufficient for good growth. Wilting of
foliage is a good indication that water is needed. Water deeply when needed
since light sprinkling will encourage roots to grow closer to the surface. A
drip system is good.
Azaleas are a source of springtime beauty and we live in a great climate for
azaleas. There is no secret formula to growing azaleas except for giving them
proper care. If you do not believe it, drive around town and see the plants in
full bloom–there are some beauties. Who knows? Maybe next year you'll be listed
on the Azalea Trail!