Azaleas are demanding of the soil in which they grow. They prefer a pH between 4.5 and 6.0. Adequate fertilization is necessary for the plants because the acidic pH of the soil should be maintained if you want to promote healthy growth. Read this article to find out how to fertilize your azalea and when it is necessary!
What do plants need for healthy growth?
Azaleas are not heavy feeders compared to other shrubs. But the right pH value in the soil is crucial for their growth. They need iron, nitrogen and phosphorus to thrive. Soil tests can be carried out at any time.
What happens when there is a nutrient deficiency?
Chlorotic leaves can be considered a sign of nutrient deficiency. Such leaves are yellowed and this happens when the pH of the soil is not right and the plants suffer a nitrogen deficiency. With a phosphorus deficiencybecome the leavesdark green to black.
When should you fertilize azalea?
It is important to know the right time to fertilize azaleas. To do this, you need to carry out a soil test so that you can act correctly. You should do this every few years, not every year. Incorporating organic compost or dried leaves into the garden soil before planting your azaleas is the best fertilizer needed for azaleas. Only if the plants show signs of nutrient deficiency or if they grow too slowly do you need to apply fertilizers. When should you fertilize the plants? You should never fertilize azaleas in late summer or early fall. It is best to fertilize in spring to mid-summer or late winter. Here are the best options:
Fertilize azaleas in early spring to mid-summer
Early spring is a suitable time to fertilize azaleas. Note that you should only begin fertilizing after new leaf growth begins. In order for the fertilizer to be well absorbed by the plants, the soil should not be dry, but rather moderately moist.
When to fertilize your azalea: in late winter
Another possible oneTiming for fertilizationof azaleas is late winter. This helps if you need to acidify the soil. Follow the instructions on the packaging to know how much fertilizer to apply.
How often should you apply fertilizer?
Azaleas do not need a second fertilization. When it comes to new plants, you can fertilize them in the second year. Testing the soil regularly will help you determine whether or not you should continue to fertilize your azalea.
How to fertilize azaleas?
Fertilizing azaleas is easy. Sprinkle the fertilizer on the soil surface and lightly scrape it into the soil, no deeper than 2 inches.
Avoid over-fertilization
Over-fertilizing azaleas can cause a few problems. Overfertilization can burn the leaves. They will brown at the tips first and eventually burn. Be aware that over-fertilized leaves attract insects and mites such as scale insects, mealybugs, aphids and spider mites. For example, too much nitrogen can cause an insect infestation. In this case, you should reduce fertilization or even stop it altogether.
Should azaleas be fertilized in pots?
If you are growing your azalea in a pot, it is most likely that the plant already has a slow-release fertilizer in the form of pellets in the pot. Therefore, you should not add any more fertilizer. Note that potted azaleas are generally not hardy varieties.
What to do after fertilizing?
What to do after fertilizing azaleas? If possible, mulch the azaleas with pine bark or pine straw. After fertilizing, use 2 to 3 inches of pine bark, pine straw, or other organic material. Pine-based mulch is very suitable because it acidifies the soil as it decomposes. Consider mulch to help control weeds and conserve soil moisture.
Should you prune plants after fertilizing?If you like the azaleasIf you need to prune, only do so immediately after flowering. Azaleas form flower buds in late summer and fall for next year's flowers. After they have faded, cut off any flowers for next year.
