azalea
Rhododendron 'St. Louis Blues'
Cycle:
Perennial
Watering:
Average
Hardiness Zone:
4 - 8
Flowers:
Bright pink Flowers
Sun:
Part shade
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Moderate
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
watering
Azalea 'St. Louis Blues' should be watered regularly and deeply in order to maintain healthy growth. Watering should be done once or twice a week, depending on the season and the weather, and should be done when the soil feels dry to the touch about 1 inch below the surface. In the spring and summer months, the plant should be watered deeply (around 1 inch of water) and watered again when the top inch of soil is dry. In the fall and winter months, the plant should be watered much less often, only when the top 2-3 inches of soil is completely dry. It is important to avoid overwatering as this can cause root rot and other issues.
sunlight
Azaleas prefer bright, indirect sunlight and especially for the Rhododendron 'St. Louis Blues' variety, it is ideal for them to have at least 4 to 6 hours of indirect, bright sunlight per day. It can tolerate some shade, but full shade should be avoided. Morning sun and even the sun of the late afternoon is beneficial. Too much direct sunlight for long periods of time, especially during the hottest part of the day, can create damage to the plant’s foliage and flowers. If you are unsure if your plant is getting the right amount of sunlight, watch for any sign of wilting, drooping or dropped leaves. This would be a sign that the plant needs some relief from the direct sun.
pruning
Azaleas should be pruned in late winter or early spring, just before growth begins. Pruning should be done sparingly and only enough to maintain a desired size and shape. Remove damaged, diseased or dead wood as well as crossing branches. Avoid cutting back into old wood as it will not produce new growth. Pruning should keep in mind that flower buds are formed on the previous year’s new growth; over-pruning will reduce blooms. Generally, about 1-third of the oldest stems should be pruned, so that the plant does not become too thick or woody. Azaleas may also be lightly pruned after flowering to shape and tidy up the plant.
Season
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.
