Fertilizing Azaleas and Rhododendrons

Azalea-japonica

Now is the time to fertilize these shrubs as they are getting ready to set their blooms for next year. There is a short window so make sure you do it just after yours have finished blooming. I also recommend testing the pH of your soil, as they must have an acidic pH to survive (Visit plumstone.com to see an easy to use tester-$9.99 for 8 tests and handy reference charts for easy planting and amending). Not only will rhodies and azaleas not bloom without the correct pH-as low as 4.5 up to 5.5 to be safe, they can even die-I learned that one the hard way.

There are many choices at your local garden center to lower pH. Brand names like Miracle Gro’s Miracid product are specially designed for acid lovers. However, plain old sulphur, sold as elemental sulfur sometimes, will work just as well. A little goes a long way. For best results refer to the Amendment chart included in each package of SoilStick pH meters.

Also, if your shrubs are too “leggy” or you want to change the shape you may trim them back just after the bloom disappears BUT you may lose blooms on that branch so trim just a few at a time. Then wait until next year and trim a branch or two. This way you’ll gradually maintain the shape you desire without sacrificing all your blooms.

Good luck and happy gardening.