evergreen azalea

When watering an evergreen azalea, such as Rhododendron 'Robleja' AUTUMN SWEETHEART, it is important to water it correctly to encourage healthy growth. When the top 1" - 2" of soil is dry, it is time to give your plant a deep, thorough watering. Overwatering can drown your azalea's roots, so water slowly and deeply when necessary. Avoid getting water on the leaves or flowers when watering, and do not water from overhead. Adding a layer of mulch around the soil surface of your evergreen azalea will help retain moisture in the soil and reduce the need to water as frequently.

Evergreen azaleas thrive in bright, indirect sunlight for most of the day. During the summer months, they prefer full to partial shade and will tolerate full sun for no more than 4 to 6 hours a day. In the winter, evergreen azaleas need less light and can tolerate full sun for as little as 2 or 3 hours a day. It is best to avoid direct sunlight, especially early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the sunlight can become too intense. Keeping the plant out of direct sun will also help protect its delicate petals from scorching.

Evergreen azaleas (Rhododendron 'Robleja' AUTUMN SWEETHEART) require very minimal pruning. It is best to wait until the late spring or early summer when new growth begins. Lightly prune the plant to maintain its size and shape. Remove any dead, weak, or damaged branches, as well as any wayward or overly long branches. Avoid pruning too much from the plant, as this can damage the plant and cause delayed flower growth.