pinxterbloom azalea

Pinxterbloom Azalea plants should be watered deeply and consistently when first planted. During the first season of growth, water it thoroughly once a week, or enough to keep the soil evenly moist. Reduce the frequency of watering once the plant is established. During the warm summer months, water every 5-7 days, providing enough water to thoroughly moisten the soil. During the cooler fall and winter months, water only once every 2-3 weeks. Allow the soil to partly dry out between waterings.

Pinxterbloom azalea (Rhododendron periclymenoides) prefers partial shade to full sun. When grown in full sun, this plant needs around 3–4 hours of direct sunlight each day. In partial shade, it can tolerate more sunlight, up to 6 hours. During the summer, it is best to provide shade during the hottest part of the day, usually between 10am and 2pm. During fall and winter, more sun can be provided, especially during fall. If planted outdoors, it is recommended to provide light shade in winter, but if planted indoors, this plant can handle direct sunlight.

Pinxterbloom azaleas should be pruned twice a year. Pruning in the spring should be done just after the flowers fade (around late May). This is done to encourage new growth and better flowering the next year. Prune back a third of the older branches and thin out the smaller branches. In the fall, prune back the longer, rangy shoots and thin out the middle of the shrub. This will help encourage a dense, bushy growth habit. Dead branches should be removed as needed and the shrub should be kept compact. Avoid heavy pruning since this will delay flowering.