evergreen azalea

Water evergreen azaleas (Rhododendron 'Rosebud') once every week or 2 during the growing season (spring and summer). Make sure the soil is consistently moist but avoid overwatering, as the roots may become waterlogged and start to rot. If the weather gets very hot, water more often. In the fall and winter, water the azaleas only when the soil is dry. Water deeply, letting the water reach the deepest roots. Aim for a total of about 2 inches of water per week.

Evergreen azalea (Rhododendron 'Rosebud') thrives best when receiving full sunlight for 4-6 hours per day, preferably between the morning and early afternoon hours. The plant should be shaded from the harsh direct afternoon sunlight, as this can cause scorching of the leaves and buds. If grown in full shade, it may not produce many blooms, so an area with either morning or late afternoon sun is ideal. The plant will also benefit from indirect light for the remaining parts of the day.

Timing: Most pruning for an evergreen azalea should take place in late winter or early spring, when the plant is still dormant. Amount: Pruning an evergreen azalea should be kept to a minimum, as too much pruning can slow down flowering and cause a decline in health. Only lightly thin out the branches by removing dead, diseased, crossed, or weak shoots. Trim back any over-extended shoots by about 1-third of their length. Do not remove more than 1-third of the plant’s total foliage at any 1 time.