Rhododendron 'Kathleen' typically starts flowering in April.
azalea
Rhododendron 'Kathleen'
Azalea 'Kathleen' is a deciduous flowering shrub with a fountain-shaped growth habit. It features clusters of single, deep pink flowers in early Spring and vibrant green foliage throughout the year. Growing up to 4 feet tall and 5 feet wide, 'Kathleen' is ideal for planting as a foundation shrub with the added bonus of added seasonal colour. It prefers acidic, well-drained soils and can be grown in full sun or part shade, making it an ideal addition to any garden. With its easy maintenance and versatile growing requirements, there is no excuse not to include a bit of colourful and fragrant Spring in your garden with Azalea 'Kathleen'.
Cycle:
Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Layering Propagation,Cutting,Grafting Propagation,Division,Seed Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
5 - 8
Flowers:
Light orange with darker orange tips and blotch Flowers
Sun:
Part shade
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Moderate
Poisonous To Pets:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Azaleas require frequent watering to keep their soil moist, so it is best to water your Azalea (Rhododendron 'Kathleen') when the top inch of the soil is dry. Try to water deeply once a week, making sure to saturate the entire rootball. If the weather is particularly warm and/or dry, you may need to water more often, or even daily in extreme cases. Make sure that your Azalea does not sit in standing water, as overwatering it can cause root rot. Mulch around the base of the Azalea will help the soil retain its moisture and keep the roots cool.
sunlight
Azalea (Rhododendron 'Kathleen') requires bright, indirect sunlight. It should be kept in a bright area, yet away from direct sunlight, especially during the hottest parts of the day. Giving 6 to 8 hours of indirect sunlight per day should be sufficient. When the sun is at its highest and most intense, shading the plant should be considered. In areas with hot summers, it is best to place the azalea where it will receive morning light and some reflective light in the afternoon. If the plant is in an area that does not have access to natural sunlight, artificial lighting should be used.
pruning
Azaleas should be pruned in early spring, usually before mid-April, when the plant begins to come out of dormancy. Pruning will help open the plant up and encourage new growth. To prune, start by removing any dead, diseased or crossing branches. Also remove branches that grow too close together, as this may limit airflow. Thin out branches to create an even canopy if needed. Finally, lightly prune the top of the plant to promote more branching. When pruning an Azalea, remember not to remove more than 25% of the branches.
Season
Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering
Hardiness Map
FAQ
Is Azalea an evergreen flower?
Yes, azaleas are an evergreen flower. These flowering shrubs are deciduous, meaning that they have leaves that hold on through winter and bloom annually with beautiful and colorful pink, white or purple flowers. Azaleas are grown primarily for their attractive blossoms and attractive green foliage, which are a great addition to any garden.
How do I propagate azalea?
Propagating azaleas through cuttings is the most common method of propagation and is done best in autumn or early spring. To do this, use sharp, sterile pruning shears to cut a 3- to 4-inch length of softwood from a healthy branch of the azalea cluster. Ensure there are at least 2 to 3 sets of leaves on each cutting, and remove any larger leaves at the base. Prepare a pot with a potting mix containing 1-2 parts of sterile compost, 1 part of perlites and some rooting hormone. Stick the cuttings 1-2 inches into the potting mix and mist with water. Keep the pot in indirect sunlight, and keep the soil moist at all times. Once the roots begin to form, the new azalea is ready to be planted.
Can azalea plant propagate by cutting?
Yes, azaleas can be propagated by cuttings. Taking softwood cuttings from the soft-stemmed varieties of azalea is the most common way of propagating them. This can be done by taking a cutting that is 4-6 inches in length, using a sharp-edged garden shear or knife. The cutting should be taken from the semi-ripened shoots, which are generally found at the tips of branches. Place the cuttings into soil and mist lightly to aid them in rooting. Keep the soil moist, and the cuttings should root and establish themselves in a few weeks.
Can Azaleas grow indoors?
Yes, Azaleas can grow indoors with the proper care and environment. To keep your Azalea plant indoors you'll need to make sure that it has a spot with plenty of indirect sunlight, like near a window, to help it produce brightly colored flowers. The soil should also be kept evenly moist and well-drained, and the room should be kept at a temperature around 65°-75°F. With a bit of effort, an Azalea plant can thrive indoors and give you a stunning display of flowers every year.
Can Azalea survive in cold climates?
Azaleas can tolerate cold climates, but extreme temperatures can damage the plant. When temperatures dip below -6 °C (21 °F), most varieties of azaleas cannot survive. Protecting azaleas from the cold using covers, such as burlap, is one way to guard against harsh temperatures. Additionally, mulching around the base of the azaleas, using materials such as pine bark can also help protect the plants from the colder weather. When it gets too cold, move the azaleas inside, where temperatures are more controlled.
Can all azalea varieties bloom at the same time of the year?
No, all azalea varieties cannot bloom at the same time of the year. Each variety blooms during a specific time, with some blooming in the late winter and early spring, while others might bloom in late spring or early summer. Some azaleas, like evergreen azaleas, also have multiple blooming times throughout the year. Depending on the variety and climate, the best time for planting azaleas is usually in the late winter or early spring.
Is it necessary to mulch around azalea?
Yes, it is necessary to mulch around an azalea. Mulching an azalea will provide it with important nutrients and an overall healthier environment for the shrub. Mulch also helps reduce weeds, retains moisture, and regulates soil temperature. To ensure success, use a well-draining, organic mulch such as cypress or cedar, and apply it in a 4-6 inch layer. Make sure to keep the mulch away from the azalea’s stems to prevent rot. In addition, remember to check your mulch throughout the growing season and reapply when necessary.
Is it normal for azaleas to drop their leaves in the fall?
Yes, it is normal for azaleas to drop their leaves in the fall season. In Autumn, azaleas will naturally go through their life cycle and shed their leaves as part of the plant’s dormancy process. This is a natural part of the plant’s life cycle and should not be a cause for alarm. Shedding leaves is a normal defense that a plant uses to preserve energy and nutrients during times of adverse weather.
