evergreen azalea

It is important to regularly water an Evergreen Azalea (Rhododendron 'Concho') as it needs moist soil conditions throughout the year. During the spring and summer months, these plants should be watered weekly, providing 1 to 2 inches of water each time. During prolonged hot weather, it may be necessary to water twice a week. Make sure to avoid any prolonged flooding or drought periods as this could cause foliage damage or death. When the weather cools in the fall and winter months, the waterings can be reduced to once per month. If temperatures do not dip below freezing, waterings can be reduced further. Make sure to check soil throughout the year for proper moisture levels. If soil is dry 1 inch below the surface, it is time to water.

For optimal growth, Evergreen Azaleas need direct sunlight for a certain amount of time each day. It is important to devise a sun plan for your shrubbery. Ideally, Evergreen Azaleas should be placed in a spot where it will receive 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. As this species of azalea prefers morning and late-afternoon sun, Eastern and Western exposures are the best situation for it, respectively. Additionally, it is vital to ensure that your shrub is not in a spot that will experience any afternoon shade, as afternoon shade can prevent optimal flower and foliage growth. When the days become shorter and colder in late fall and winter, the amount of direct sunlight Evergreen Azaleas should receive each day will decrease to only 2 to 4 hours. During this time, the best way for it to receive any light is for it to be located in an area that is sheltered from cold winter winds and preferably facing south. Additionally, its growth will perk up again during spring where the amount of direct sunlight it requires will increase back to 4 to 6 hours.

The evergreen azalea (Rhododendron 'Concho') should be pruned in late winter or early spring. Generally, it should be pruned no more than 2/3 of its size in order to allow for proper growth and flowering. Dead and broken branches should be removed first. If the entire plant needs to be pruned, cut the branches back judiciously, no more than 1/3 of the total length of a branch at a time. If needing to shape the outline of the azalea, reduce the length of the branch with pruning shears to promote additional compact growth.