Azalea, Winter Leaf Discoloration

During late winter or early spring much of the affected foliage may drop. Home owners should not become unduly alarmed over this azalea condition. It will be more unsightly than harmful.

During late fall and early winter many azalea plants will develop discolored foliage. White varieties may develop a yellow foliage; red, or pink varieties may develop a reddish-bronze discoloration.

During late winter or early spring much of the affected foliage may drop. Home owners should not become unduly alarmed over this azalea condition. It will be more unsightly than harmful. Simply stated, the plants become hungry during that long period from late July to late March when the first and last applications of plant food are often applied.

Nitrogen deficiency…

The condition results from a nitrogen deficiency or a very low level of nitrogen in the plant and in the soil during the fall and winter months. A light application of your regular fertilizer containing nitrogen around October 15th in your area of the state will help prevent the discoloration.

Fertilize carefully…

Use the fertilizer at one half the normal rate. Apply it uniformly over the soil surface. Avoid getting the fertilizer material on the foliage or stems. To be safe, thoroughly water the fertilizer into the soil. If your azaleas are mulched it will not be necessary to remove the mulch before applying fertilizer.

Applying the fertilizer in November or December after the symptoms begin to appear will not stop the leaf drop.

For more information on winter leaf discoloration of azaleas, contact your local County Extension Office.