Azaleas, in many colors, are one of the first shrubs to let you know, summer will soon arrive. In my area, Warren Pa, is the first area where the azaleas shrubs line Market Street with livid color.
Azaleas have single and double blooms in many shades of white, purple, red, pink or orange. I have tried to make my azalea collection have blooms from early to almost the beginning of summer. Azaleas also look nice mixed in with Rhododendron shrubs and spring and summer bulbs.
When selecting azaleas for your backyard, check variety to see if it will adapt and grow in your climate. Living in a zone 5 I need hardy azaleas that will take the cold winter nights. I also winterize the plants for added protection.
“Check with your local nursery or home center to see what they recommend for your region of the country.” Another overlooked area for plant, tree and shrub growing tips is your local Extension Office.
I am adding seven azaleas to my yard. Here are tips for planting this shrub that have worked for me in the past.
Choose a planting site with light shade (some varieties can take some sun) and well-drained, acidic soil rich in organic matter. This tip is the one I consider the most important. The right soil mix will help your azalea to grow, stay healthy and produce flowers in quantity.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball. The top of the root ball should be slightly above the top of the surrounding soil. If you have a clay soil make sure you break up the sides of the clay wall to help the roots extend into the more compact soil base.
Lift the container off the plant and cut or loosen any matted or damaged roots off the root ball.
After planting the shrub, water well, then apply a thick layer of organic mulch to help keep the soil moist. At this critical stage where new roots are forming make sure you never let the plant dry out completely.
Check your shrub each spring and fall for any insect or animal damage and remove any damaged branches. Make sure you add additives or fresh mulch to the plants base and prune at the proper time to keep the shrub full and producing flowers. To protect your plans from deer and rabbit, you should built an affordable fence.
The new azalea shrubs will make a nice addition to the backyard and small rock garden I am adding to the landscaping this fall.
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