Most azalea varieties bloom in the spring with some blooming a month or so earlier. Blooms typically last for one or two weeks. In warm climates, some azalea varieties bloom again in the autumn. This re-blooming trait is being bred into the Encore azaleas for reliable autumn blooming in colder areas as well.
Azalea Care:
Feed with suitable fertiliser such as Dynamic Lifter for Camellias and Azaleas
Select a pot that is relatively squat in shape for your Azalea to grow in (Often refered to as 'Azalea pots' in nurseries).
Azaleas do not like "wet feet" so make sure to remove any saucer from under the pot.
Azaleas like moist soil at their roots and will resent drying out repeatedly in pots. Adequate water after bloom helps to produce more flower buds for next year. An infrequent deep soaking is more effective than superficial sprinkling. The amount of water needed depends on the soil, temperature, humidity, wind and sunlight. .
To avoid cutting off next year's flower buds, do major pruning of azaleas soon after they bloom. Shortening or removal of long slender stems with no side shoots and cutting out dead wood may be done at any time.
Pests and Diseases
Azaleas are most often attacked by Lace Bug during the warmer months of the year causing the foliage to silver/brown. Control this with a systemic insecticide such as Confidor or Maxguard.
Mites can also affect Azaleas, though a regular spray with Eco-Oil should keep mites and other problematic insects at bay.
There are no fungicides currently available for the control of petal blight.
See www.camelliagrove.com.au for more available varieties.
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