Azaleas: The South’s Favorite Shrub

In celebration of National Women’s Day this month, why not also celebrate a flower that symbolizes feminity? While we all recognize the word azalea, there are actually over a thousand types that come in different shapes, sizes and colors, just as women do. 

[SOURCE]

DO:

• Plant with top of root ball slightly above the soil level as they have very shallow roots
• Because they absorb water through foliage, wet both leaves and roots
• Provide them with well-drained, enriched soil
• If using a sprinkler, use in the morning so the leaves are able to dry by the afternoon
• Plant them in an area with partial sun or filtered shade beneath tall trees

[SOURCE]

• Plant in heavy clay. This will cause the roots to rot
• Use limy, alkaline-soil as this lacks iron and will cause chlorosis which is yellowing of the leaves
• Mulch in the fall. This holds the heat in the soil, delays the onset of dormancy and increases chances of winter damage
• Give too much sun as this with bleach and burn the leaves

[SOURCE]

[SOURCE]