Mix in plenty of organic material such as well-aged compost, leaf mold, or shredded pine bark until the soil mixture is one-third to one-half organic humus. Fragrant Star': The pure white flowers on this small, 3- to 4-foot mid-spring bloomer have a heady, spicy fragrance. The leaves are a pleasing bluish-green. It is pretty heat-tolerant but not as cold-hardy as others (zones 5 to 9), though it can withstand cold temperatures as low as minus 20 degrees Fahrenheit if sheltered from harsh winds. Rosy Lights': This compact (4 to 6 feet) deciduous cold-hardy shrub blooms in late spring and features a sprightly flower in a rosy red color with hues of coral and blush. This is one of the 'Northern Lights' series of azalea-rhododendron hybrids. The flowers are borne in "trusses"—not as round as traditional rhododendrons but not as diffused as conventional azaleas. It is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 7. If plunging in soil, place some coarse, gritty material at the base to discourage worms from entering the pot through drainage holes. A cool, partially shaded position is desirable, but in deep shade flower buds may not form. Deciduous – Deciduous azaleas lose their leaves in fall. They include species native to North America, Europe, and Asia. Flowers are usually tubular.

Rich organic matter in the soil is necessary for plant health, and azaleas prefer acidic soils with a pH between 4.5 and 6.0. There has been quite a lot of consumer interest in Encore Azaleas since they were seen on TV in 2015 at the Augusta National Golf Club in America for the Golf Masters,” David told me. “Unfortunately, the first plants introduced to Europe were not hardy enough, with our cooler summers the wood didn't harden enough for winter. More recent selections have been trialled for Northern European conditions and seem more suitable.No matter where you are, autumn is the best time to plant azaleas, because the plants can settle in during cooler temperatures. In warm locations you can plant azaleas any time of year, but spring and summer planting can be stressful. If you will be planting during a warmer time of year, provide plenty of water.

Common pests that can affect azaleas include nematodes, mealybugs, aphids, bark scale, spider mites, and lace bugs. Lace bugs are more likely to target shrubs that are grown in areas of full sun. Potted shrubs are best planted in spring or fall. For a showy display, they require the right amount of light, and soil with an acidic pH that’s moist and well-draining. Space two feet apart for plants that grow up to three feet at maturity, two to three feet apart for plants up to five feet, and three to five feet apart for those greater than five feet.Sport’ is a term used in horticulture to describe the way some plants grow just one branch or segment which is different from the original plant. Sports can be propagated from cuttings to produce a new variety. Spectacular standards