It’s hard to imagine the greens of the Masters at August National Golf Club or the sweeping lawns of historic homes without the backdrop of blooming azaleas.
These classic shrubs are well-loved for their bright, reliable spring color.
Azaleas are happiest in dappled shade, such as under the shelter of tall pines.
They need some sun to bloom well, but they’ll do better if shielded from blazing hot afternoon sun in hot climates, such as zones 8 and warmer, says Carmolli. Flowers also last longer when the plants are partially shaded.
When planting your shrub, dig a hole about two to three times as wide as the root ball, and just about as deep.
Ease the plant out of its pot, then place it in the hole at the same depth (or even a smidge higher) than it was in the container.
Then fill it back in with the native dirt. Don’t add any peat moss or potting soil to the hole. Along with drainage problems, this can also cause the roots to circle around inside the hole instead of spreading out into the native soil, and the bush won't be as sturdy.
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