Plant Encore Azaleas in fall to enjoy flowers until first frost and allow time for roots to establish without damage from extreme temperatures.
In some areas, summer can be too hot to make planting Encore® Azaleas fun, while fall is just right. Also, plants may appear dormant during winter, but they are working hard at creating stronger roots and new flower buds for spring.
Exposure:
When planting your Encore® Azaleas this fall, choose an area that provides full sun with some afternoon shade.
Encore® Azaleas require 4 – 6 hours of full sun to produce their famous, multi-season flowers. However, especially during summer, they need some afternoon shade to maintain balance and vibrant colors.
Soil:
The soil should be acidic to promote healthy growth and well-drained to avoid root rot.
Add nutrients to the soil with organic matter, but not fertilizer (fertilize in spring). To accommodate the root structure, dig a hole that is twice as wide as the the root ball and shallow enough for the top of the root ball to rest above the soil line. Azaleas have shallow roots, which means they grow wide versus deep. If the hole is too deep, you run the risk of root rot.
Cold Protection:
To protect from winter cold, and to help preserve moisture in summer, apply an inch of mulch on top of the soil after planting.
If you live in or are experiencing extremely cold weather during the first year, you may want to cover the plants to provide extra protection while the roots are still developing.
Then, in spring time, fertilize your Encore Azaleas after fear of frost and watch them bloom and grow.
Following spring’s first showcase of flowers, lightly prune to encourage growth and increase blooming for remaining seasons.
To watch "How to Plant Encore® Azaleas" featuring inventor, Buddy Lee, click here.
For a step by step guide on "Planting Encore Azaleas," click here.
Encore Azalea is the best azalea you'll ever plant. Encore Azaleas are the world's best-selling reblooming azalea with rich, colorful blooms in spring, summer and fall. Encore Azaleas have 29 varieties of bloom colors and sizes to choose from. Plant them in your garden and enjoy sustainable color season after season.
