Dogwood Rhododendron Azalea

Watering

Water deeply once a week, ensuring the soil stays moist but not soggy. Increase watering during hot, dry spells.

Mulching

Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Opt for pine needles or bark for best results. Keep mulch away from the stem to prevent rot.

Pruning

Prune lightly in early spring before new growth appears. Remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches, and trim back any overgrown limbs to maintain a desired shape.

Fertilizing

In early spring, feed your Azalea with a slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants. Follow the product’s instructions for application and amount.

Cold Protection

Choose a sheltered location for your Azalea to minimize exposure to harsh winter winds. If a deep freeze is expected, burlap fabric can be used to loosely wrap the plant for additional protection.

Monitoring for Pests and Diseases

Regularly inspect your Azalea for signs of pests or diseases. Only treat when necessary with a targeted solution to avoid harming the plant.

When It Arrives

Water your Azalea thoroughly right after planting. The soil should be moist but not soggy all around the root ball.

During the First Year

For the first two weeks, water your Azalea every other day, keeping the soil moist but not too wet. Check for dryness by sticking your finger 2-4 inches into the soil near the roots. If it feels dry, water deeply. After two weeks, switch to watering once a week. Supplement with additional watering if there’s less than an inch of rain per week. Use a drip hose for slow, even soaking. Aim to provide roughly 1 inch of water per week, adjusting based on rainfall.

After the First Year

Water your Azalea deeply once a week during regular weather. Increase watering frequency during hot or dry periods. Always check the soil to ensure it stays moist, but not soggy. Deep watering encourages roots to grow deep for better access to moisture.

When It Arrives

Hold off on fertilizing for the first few months after planting. New plants focus on establishing their root system, and fertilizer can be too harsh at this stage.

During the First Year

In early spring of the second year, fertilize your Azalea with a slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants. Opt for a balanced fertilizer with a ratio like 10-10-10 or one specifically labeled for Azaleas and Rhododendrons. Follow the product’s instructions for application amount, typically scattered around the base of the plant.

After the First Year

Continue fertilizing with a slow-release fertilizer in early spring each year. You can also add a light layer of composted manure around the base in late fall or early winter for a natural nutrient boost.

When to Prune

Prune lightly in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Avoid pruning in summer or fall as this can remove flower buds for the following spring.

How to Cut

Use sharp, clean pruning shears or loppers to make clean cuts. Bypass pruners are ideal for smaller branches, while loppers work well for thicker ones.

Find Branches to Cut

Look for dead, diseased, or damaged branches that detract from the overall shape.

Cut Off Bad Branches

Make clean cuts just above a healthy outward-facing bud or branch junction. Remove branches that rub against each other or grow inwards towards the center of the plant.

Shape the Plant

For a more controlled look, trim back any overgrown branches to maintain the desired size and shape. Aim for a natural, balanced appearance.

Make it Bushy

Encourage bushier growth by pinching off the soft tips of new growth during the spring and summer. This will stimulate the plant to produce more side shoots, creating a denser, fuller shape.

Get Rid of Trimmings

Dispose of pruned branches properly. Bag them and discard them with your yard waste, or chop them up finely and add them to your compost pile.

How much sun does the Dogwood Rhododendron Azalea need?

This Azalea prefers dappled sunlight or partial shade. Avoid planting it in areas with harsh afternoon sun or strong winds.

What kind of soil does the Dogwood Rhododendron Azalea need?

It thrives in well-drained, acidic soil rich in organic matter. Aim for a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. If your soil is not naturally acidic, you can amend it with peat moss, composted manure, or a soil acidifier.

How big does the Dogwood Rhododendron Azalea get?

A mature Dogwood Rhododendron Azalea will typically reach 4-6 feet tall and wide.

Is the Dogwood Rhododendron Azalea deer resistant?

Yes! Deer tend to avoid Rhododendrons due to their leaves’ tough texture and slightly toxic properties.

How often should I water my Dogwood Rhododendron Azalea?

Water your Azalea deeply once a week, especially during the first year after planting. Aim to provide roughly 1 inch of water per week, adjusting based on rainfall. Check the soil to ensure it stays moist but not soggy.

Do I need to fertilize my Dogwood Rhododendron Azalea?

For the first few months after planting, hold off on fertilizing. In early spring of the second year, and every year after that, fertilize with a slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants.

When is the best time to prune my Dogwood Rhododendron Azalea?

Prune lightly in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Avoid pruning in summer or fall, as this can remove flower buds for the following spring.

Is the Dogwood Rhododendron Azalea poisonous?

While all parts of the Rhododendron are mildly toxic and can cause stomach upset if ingested, this Azalea is not considered a serious threat to humans or pets. However, it’s always best to keep plants out of reach of children and animals.