Azaleas are Blooming!

Azaleas are in Bloom!
Here are some tips on planting azaleas!

1.Location:Planting azaleas in a spot cooled by partial shade, where the soil is acidic(Soil pH should be about 5.5; have your garden soil tested first before planting).It is a good idea to use a special soil when planting.

2.Red Oaks: Azalea and rhododendron plants like acid soil and have shallow roots, so a red oak is compatible with them will not mind acid soil.

3.Mulching and Water: Azaleas like mulch to help protect them from illness.They like water but just don't like to be sitting in it for long periods of time, which would cause their root to rot.

4. Pruning:Pruning azaleas should be undertaken immediately after they finish blooming (usually June or July). Pruning azaleas later than that risks interfering with the development of next year's buds. I see many lawn companies pruning the azaleas and other shrubs at the wrong time and this leads to unhealthy material.

5.Fertilization: It is important to fertilize azaleas twice a year to keep the soil acidic and give the azaleas a pretty zone. Call Arbor Life at 281-914-7788 if you have any other questions about this topic or other plant concerns for the spring.