How to Care for Southern Azaleas

Southern azaleas (Azalea indica) are a group of sturdy, evergreen shrubs with deep green leaves and open, bell-shaped flowers that come in many colors. These shrubs lack the cold tolerance of non-southern varieties. Since the only difference between southern azaleas and other azaleas is the suggested United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) growing zone (8A to 10B), care of southern azaleas is similar.

Things You'll Need

• Soil testing kit (for pH levels)
• Peat moss (if needed)
• Perlite (if needed)
• Organic mulch
• Shovel
• Watering tool

Instructions

1. Select a planting location with day-long dappled shade, such as under a deciduous tree, or a location with morning sun and afternoon shade. Southern azaleas will wilt in the hot rays of the afternoon summer sun. In addition, buds might drop off the shrub before opening if the soil is too warm.

2. Test the soil's pH: A testing kit is available at any local garden center. Southern azaleas prefer acidic soil in the 4.5 to 6.0 range, according to Clemson University. To conduct the test, insert the kit's coring tool into the soil at the planting site and follow the kit's instructions.

3. Amend the soil with peat moss, perlite and organic mulch, if needed, to ensure that the soil is acidic, well-draining and rich in nutrients. The amount needed will depend on the results of the soil test. Work the materials into the ground to a depth of 6 to 8 inches, and in an area as wide as the plant will be when it is mature.

4. Plant southern azaleas in the fall or early spring. Dig a hole as deep and slightly wider than the root ball. Set the root ball so that the top of it is about an inch above the ground's surface, then backfill the hole and water it thoroughly.

5. Water frequently throughout the growing season, which lasts from March to early summer. Moisten the soil to a depth of 8 to 12 inches with each watering. Water when the top layer of soil appears dry to the touch. Stop watering in the fall to allow the azalea to go dormant.

6. Apply 3 inches of organic mulch to the soil around the southern azalea in early spring, before the buds begin to develop. Do not let the mulch touch the main stem of the shrub; this can lead to the development of fungal diseases.

7. Pruning dead or broken branches, as well as shaping, can be done after the flowers fade or before the buds develop in the spring.

Tips & Warnings

• Azalea indica is a vigorous grower and can reach heights of 10 feet or more, according to Clemson University, so make sure to leave plenty of room for this shrub to grow.

References

• North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service: Azaleas for North Carolina
• Clemson University: Azalea Planting
• Stauffers of Kissel Hill: Azalea Indica