Like the closely related rhododendron, azaleas also bloom primarily in the shade - a rarity for flowering shrubs that usually need a lot of sun for a magnificent abundance of flowers. Since the plant is also hardy, it is ideal for beautifying shady gardens.
How do you properly care for a Japanese azalea?
The Japanese azalea requires moderate watering with lime-free water, regular rhododendron fertilization and, if necessary, pruning in March. Also pay attention to avoiding waterlogging and hardy winter protection for young plants or potted specimens.
How often do you have to water the Japanese azalea?
When it comes to watering the Japanese azalea, you should be careful. Although the plant prefers well-drained and rather moist soil - the moister the soil, the brighter the location can be - but it doesn't like wet feet. A certain basic moisture level makes sense, but waterlogging should be avoided. Therefore, water regularly but moderately. If possible, use rain or pond water as azaleas do not tolerate lime. In addition, leaves, flowers and shoots should under no circumstances be wetted.
How often and with what should you fertilize the Japanese azalea?
Azaleas need a lot of nutrients and should therefore be regularly supplied with rhododendron fertilizer (€8.00 on Amazon). Start fertilizing at the beginning of the growing season in March and continue with organic fertilizers (e.g. compost or horn shavings) throughout the season. Mulching with compost and/or grass clippings is recommended.
Should you prune Japanese azaleas?
Pruning is only necessary if the bush is in danger of becoming bald. In this case, it is best to shorten the shoots before they actually sprout in March, but not shorter than around 50 to 60 centimeters. Larger cuts should be treated with a wound closure agent. Thinning out and removing dead branches are also part of this spring care.
Does cleaning out dead shoots make sense?
Yes, because then the plant produces more flowers. However, do not cut off the dead flowers, but rather break them out carefully: this is also where the new shoots grow, which of course should not be damaged.
Can you radically cut back Japanese azaleas?
In principle, radical pruning is possible. However, Japanese azaleas may take a long time to sprout again after such a cut.
Is the Japanese azalea hardy?
Yes, the Japanese azalea is hardy. However, light winter protection makes sense, especially for young plants, as well as frost-free or protected wintering for potted specimens.
Which diseases and pests are particularly common in the Japanese azalea?
Typical damages include yellowing of the leaves caused by malnutrition or malnutrition or leaf spots caused by fungal or viral infections. Various wilting diseases and botrytis (grey mold) also occur quite frequently.
Tip
When incorporating fertilizer, be careful not to work too intensively with the hoe near the Japanese azalea. The roots of the plant are close to the surface and could be damaged.