evergreen azalea

Evergreen azaleas require a lot of water, particularly during the growth season, which is usually between late April and late August. During this time, water them deeply and often, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. The soil should be evenly moist, but not soggy. Water in the early morning or evening, avoiding midday heat, which can cause the leaves to scorch or dry out. In winter, reduce the frequency of watering to ensure the soil stays slightly moist but never soggy.

Evergreen Azalea (Rhododendron 'Atalanta') should be exposed to an abundance of direct sunlight for at least 6 hours during the day, preferably from early morning to late afternoon. In some climates, indirect sunlight during the morning and early afternoon may be sufficient enough to ensure the plant is blooming and thriving. The amount of sunlight will also depend on the season, and more sunlight may be required during the winter months when the sun is not as strong. It is important to check the requirements for sunlight of the specific plant species prior to planting.

Evergreen azalea (Rhododendron 'Atalanta') should be pruned in late winter or early spring, after any cold weather has passed. Pruning in the fall can cause damage to the shrub since new growth can occur late in the season when temperatures are unpredictable. When pruning, remove old, browning flowers and any diseased or dead branches. Although the azalea should not be heavily pruned, it is beneficial to remove some of the older branches, as this encourages new growth. It is also beneficial to tip prune, which entails pruning back the tips of the branches to create a more uniform shape. Be sure to only remove no more than 1 third of the azalea's foliage when pruning.