Encore Azaleas are coveted for their long-lasting, repeat blooms that brighten landscapes across the country. However, if you live in the Southwest, you know high heat, intense sun and alkaline soil are not ideal conditions for azaleas to flourish. Here’s the good news – with a little preparation and added attention in the first year – you, too, can enjoy the charm of these flowering shrubs. Here are some quick tips to get you started.
Soil Preferences
Encore Azaleas prefer acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. If your soil tends to be alkaline, it needs to be acidified to successfully grow azaleas, as well as blueberries, hydrangeas, gardenias, camellias and many other desirable shrubs.
Here’s how to raise alkaline soil’s acid level and avoid yellowing leaves:
- Add sphagnum peat to your native soil at the rate of 1/3 peat to 2/3 soil
- Add 2-tablespoons vinegar to one-gallon water for container plants
- Apply fertilizer containing ammonium nitrate, ammonium sulfate or sulfur-coated urea, following the directions carefully to avoid burning the plants
Encore Azaleas may also benefit from being planted in raised beds or containers with good drainage. Excess water from rain or from watering should be able to escape the plants’ shallow roots.
Heat Care
In hot climates, Encore Azaleas need more afternoon shade than in temperate areas. To assess whether your plants may need more protection from the afternoon sun, consult the American Horticultural Society heat zone map. If you determine that you are located in heat zone 9-12, it will be helpful to protect your Encore Azalea from the heat of the afternoon sun.
Planting
Once you identify the correct amount of shade and have the right soil in place, plant and water your Encore Azaleas and mulch the surrounding soil generously with pine bark, pine needles or other organic material.
“>When mulching, 2-inches is a good depth for protecting vulnerable roots from heat. And, yes, even container plants benefit by being mulched. In addition, please don’t let the mulch touch the branches of your Encore Azaleas. Pull it back a few inches so insects stay away.
Remember to water your Encore Azaleas well when first planted, and keep the soil moist until winter. New azaleas will die quickly if the soil dries excessively, as they want to be watered every couple of days. After the first year, established Encore Azaleas need one-inch of water per week either from rain or supplemental watering. At that point, regular watering is not necessary unless there are periods of excessive drought.
That’s it. Now that your work is done, sit back and watch the show!
