Some azaleas are only suitable for indoor cultivation, while others can easily be left outside in the garden and can withstand even the worst winter. This is because they are different species: The indoor azalea (Rhododendron simsii) comes from the subtropical and tropical regions of Southeast Asia and is therefore not hardy, while the Japanese azalea (Rhododendron japonicum) comes from its homeland and has a similar climate to ours is.
How do you overwinter a Japanese azalea?
The hardy Japanese azalea (Rhododendron japonicum) can overwinter in the garden. Light winter protection is recommended for young plants. When growing in pots, the root ball should be covered and the pot placed on a surface and watered regularly.
Japanese azalea is hardy
For this reason, the Japanese azalea, in contrast to the indoor azalea, is hardy and can therefore easily be planted in the garden and overwintered there. However, light winter protection makes sense, especially for young plants, while older specimens are sufficiently hardened.
Tip
It only becomes problematic if you cultivate the Japanese azalea in a pot. Since the roots are comparatively unprotected here - surrounded by little protective soil - you should, above all, cover the root ball with a garden fleece (€34.00 on Amazon) or similar. Ä. Cover and place the pot on a base made of Styrofoam or wood. Also, don't forget to water the plant even in winter.
