Planting

Planting is best undertaken in Autumn or Spring. Choose a site that is semi-shaded or that gets morning sun, but try to avoid direct afternoon heat. These plants have a fine fibrous root system and therefore must be kept moist but not waterlogged. To help fulfil these requirements, dig a planting hole three times larger than needed and mix in a mulch such as peat moss to fill the hole. Planting in massed groups helps create a micro climate that they thrive in. A surface moisture retaining mulch is beneficial for their first summer.

Insect Pests

Because roots are shallow and fibrous Grass Grub is a problem. Effective control is achieved by application of approved materials readily available at Garden Centres. Leaf Roller Caterpillars are also to be reckoned with. A good systemic insecticide should be used in Summer and early Autumn such as Confidor.

Fertiliser

Because these plants have such fine roots, they are more sensitive to over fertilising. Aim to provide a good acid fertiliser as a starter. If the leaves have a pale green colour, more nitrogen is needed. This can be provided with light dressings of Ammonium Sulphate applied to the base of the plant and then well watered in. Apply only during growing season, i.e. after flowering. Additional dressings can follow at 3–4 week intervals until leaf growth is good and healthy. Gypsum is a good soil conditioner which will help to maintain low pH levels.

Quality Service

Watering

Always remember that Azaleas and Rhodos have shallow roots and are therefore inclined to dry out quickly. For real success they must have adequate water especially during their first summer. A good soaking once a week is more effective than a constant light sprinkling.

Diseases

Fungus diseases such as Downy Mildew are not hard to control. A good fungicide applied with the insecticide will work well. It is always best to try and prevent disease and insect problems, therefore a regular preventative spray programme will give best results. Sometimes during a wet Spring a disease called Petal Blight afflicts Azalea and Rhodo flowers. The open flowers become slimy and quickly degenerate. The best management is to remove and destroy infected flower heads. Also fortnightly sprays of Greenguard or Super Shield will aid control.