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Watering

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After planting, water well. To ensure strong root growth, apply root stimulators at a ratio of:

3.5 Tablespoons per gallon of water= 3 applications.

Frequently check the root ball and water when the topsoil approaches dryness. Once established, usually after the 1st year, the plants generally require an average of 1" of water per week. 

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Mulch

Use 2-4" of organic mulch; do NOT use rock for mulch. Natural type mulch cools the soil, conserves water and helps control weeds. 

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Shade

Many people think of azaleas and rhododendrons as shade lovers. Yet dense shade is not satisfactory. Filtered sunlight is ideal, but morning sunlight with shade after 1 p.m. is satisfactory. Plants may survive in continuous shade if trees have branches pruned high. Protection from afternoon sun may also be given by fences, shrubbery or screens. 
Some deciduous azaleas are less sensitive to full sun and should be used if the location is not suitable for evergreen types. However, in full sun the delicate flower shades will bleach quickly even though the plants may grow well. 

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Wind

Always plant azaleas and rhododendrons where they will get protection from the wind. Buildings and slopes provide good barriers. Evergreen shrubs or trees such as pine, juniper or spruce planted to the south or west of rhododendrons protect them and make good backgrounds for showing off the flowers. 

Plants not given protection from the wind often develop leaf scorch or splitting of the bark on the stems. Avoid corners of buildings where wind tends to be stronger. 

 

Avoid planting on south or southwest sides of buildings.  

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