Azaleas, Location of Planting

The best planting site for azaleas is one that has good surface drainage, a loamy soil with plenty of natural organic matter, and is partially shaded as you would expect under tall, sparsely-branched pine trees.

Access with azaleas begins with selection of varieties and moves to the correct location and planting. There are many types and varieties of Azaleas available to the gardener today.

Cold hardy plants…

For maximum cold hardiness, the gardener can confine their selections to the Kurume Hybrids, Dwarf Indicas, Satsukis, native types, Gable and Glenn Dale Hybrids.

Kurume Azaleas…

For simplicity, confine your selection to the more commonly available Kurumes—they are sold as Dwarf Azaleas. However, the term dwarf may be a bit misleading Kurume Azaleas will grow up to 6 feet or so; consequently, may not fit your description of dwarf. Under correct planting and cultural practices, a one gallon size plant may grow to a height of 4 feet or more in a ten year period. Kurumes are available in a wide range of colors from pink salmon, lavender, white and several tints of red. Outstanding color combinations are possible from the many varieties.

Planting site requisites…

The best planting site for azaleas is one that has good surface drainage, a loamy soil with plenty of natural organic matter, and is partially shaded as you would expect under tall, sparsely-branched pine trees.

Partial shade protects plants and flowers from extremes of hot and cold. Heavy shade such as under oaks or maples and other broad leaf trees can provide too much shade that will result in reduced flower production and spindly growth. Azaleas planted under shallow rooted trees such as maples, elms or pecans suffer because of competition for moisture and nutrients, in addition to the deep shade.

For more information on the planting location of azaleas; contact your local County Extension Office.