Fall is an excellent time to plant shrubs like Encore Azaleas. When the summer heat gives way to the cooler days and nights of early fall, foliage growth slows down, giving more energy for the newly planted azalea roots to establish themselves. Cooler temps also allow for less watering as the new plants become established. Simply stated, fall conditions are less stressful to plants; however, to ensure success, Encore Azaleas must be planted correctly.
Here are five planting tips from Encore inventor Buddy Lee:
2. Plant Encore Azaleas in acidic soil. Encore Azaleas thrive in soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Don’t know the PH of your soil? Gather a soil sample and do a simple soil test. If you find your soil type is not ideal, here are some tips on amending your soil for azaleas.
3. Ensure adequate drainage when planting. Mixing your native soil with lots of decomposed organic material when planting your Encore Azaleas will promote the well-drained, acidic environment that azaleas love.
4. Don't plant too deeply. Be sure to plant your Encore Azalea with the top of the root ball a couple of inches above the soil. Water thoroughly, and then mulch with two- to three-inches of pine nuggets, pine straw, or another type of acidic mulch.
5. Do not fertilize or prune newly planted Encore Azaleas in the fall. Pruning or fertilizing after August can encourage the growth of new foliage. Then, as colder weather arrives, the new foliage or even the entire plant could be damaged. Wait until after spring blooms to prune, and fertilize in spring, with second feeding in summer if desired.
