PLANT PROFILE:
Azaleas

Azaleas are part of the Rhododendron family and can be generally distinguished by their smaller, dark-green leaves and tubular flowers. Azaleas are one of the Washington area’s most endearing flowering plant. They produce an electric flower show in early spring, with colors ranging from white to pinks, reds and purple. The “Dwarf” compact types are suited to shaded container gardens, patios and smaller garden spaces. The larger varieties will brighten areas with permanent light-shade. Azaleas will survive sunny locations provided the soil is not allowed to dry out.

Cultivation

Give Azaleas moist but well-drained, acidic, organic soil. Azaleas prefer partial shade. Shallow planting is essential to plant health, and plants will benefit from a mulch of leaf mold in late spring. Roots are fibrous and close to the surface, so refrain from cultivating around root area.

Pests

Azaleas are generally disease-free; however, in dryer climates they can be prone to lace-wing damage. Regular watering of the underside of leaves will help control this. If damage becomes advanced (leaves loose their color and become tan with evidence of pests on underside of leaves), spray with systemic, organic insecticide.