deciduous azalea

Deciduous azalea (Rhododendron 'Narcissiflorum') requires moderately frequent watering with a focus on keeping the soil evenly moist. It is best to check the soil at least twice per week for the first few weeks after planting. When watering in pots or containers, it is important to make sure the pot is completely drained after watering and not left to sit in standing water. In the hot summer months, Deciduous azalea can require daily watering, while in the cooler winter months, weekly watering may be enough. In general, aim to provide 1-2 inches of water per week.

Deciduous azaleas require plenty of sunlight in order to thrive in an outdoor garden. As a species, they are best suited to receiving a minimum of 3 to 4 hours of direct sunlight each day. However, during the warmer summer months, they need a little more protection from the strong midday sun rays to prevent scorching and damage to the delicate blooms and foliage. During the winter, it is best to provide the deciduous azalea with a few hours of indirect sunlight each day, as the bright winter sun can still be too harsh and damaging to the plant.

Deciduous azaleas (Rhododendron 'Narcissiflorum') should be pruned in late winter or early spring, before new growth starts. Begin by removing any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, then prune back any overly long branches or branches that cross over each other. Remove any flowers or flower buds, as deciduous azaleas will not bloom twice on the same wood. For shrubs that have become overgrown, reduce the size of the shrub by 2-thirds to 3-quarters of the original size. Lastly, shape the shrub by removing any branches that are too close together or that grow close to the ground.