The Japanese azalea is a hybrid of various rhododendron species that emerged several centuries ago in Southeast Asia. This flowering shrub is characterized by particularly lush flowers, with the colors pink, red, purple and white predominating. In terms of planting and care conditions, the Japanese azalea is very similar to the closely related rhododendron.
How do you plant a Japanese azalea correctly?
To plant a Japanese azalea, choose a partially shaded location and acidic, humus-rich soil with a pH of 4-5.5. The best planting time is in autumn, between September and November. The planting distance should be generous to avoid competition for nutrients and water.
Which location do Japanese azaleas prefer?
The plant prefers a bright to semi-shady location, preferably in the shade of tall trees. Full sun should be avoided.
What should the soil ideally be like?
Like the rhododendron, the Japanese azalea is also a ericaceous plant. It prefers acidic, humus-rich and therefore nutrient-rich soil. pH values between 4 and 5, 5 are ideal.
What time is best for planting?
Azaleas can be planted both in spring between mid-March and early May and in autumn between September and November - ideally by the end of September so that the plant can establish itself sufficiently before winter. If possible, give preference to autumn planting.
Which culture is better: planting in the garden or cultivating in a container?
Since the Japanese azalea is hardy, you can plant it in the garden without worry. As long as the pot is wide (azaleas are shallow-rooted!) and large enough, the plants also feel very comfortable in a planter.
How large should the planting distance be?
As shallow-rooted azaleas need a lot of space to accommodate other plants - especially trees and other woody plants! – don’t deny them nutrients or water.
Planting Japanese azalea correctly – this is how it’s done
When planting the Japanese azalea, follow these steps:
- Dig a sufficiently large planting pit.
- This should be three times as large and deep as the root ball.
- Improve the excavation (if necessary) with rhododendron soil and humus.
- Do not use pure peat!
- Loosen the bottom of the planting pit a little with a hoe.
- For container goods, loosen the root ball a little with your fingers.
- Fill in the excavated material again.
- Water heavily.
When does the Japanese azalea bloom?
The flowering period of the Japanese azalea lasts from April to May. As with the rhododendron, the plant produces its flower buds the previous year.
Can you propagate the Japanese azalea yourself?
It is very easy to propagate the Japanese azalea using cuttings or planters.
Can you transplant a Japanese azalea once planted?
Transplanting should not be a problem, at least for specimens that are not too large. The best time for this is after flowering in May.
Tip
Be careful when handling and pruning the Japanese azalea: it is slightly poisonous.
