11 Okt 2025 — Want Dazzling Azaleas and Rhododendrons Next Spring? Do These 3 Fall Tasks – and Skip This Common Mistake · Task #1: Give Them a Light Pruning. — While these popular shrubs are easy to maintain, a few simple steps, like mulching, light pruning, and proper watering, will protect your prized ... — A 2- to 3-inch layer of organic mulch is very important. It conserves soil moisture, maintains soil temperature, and helps to discourage weeds. By combining good soil management, timely pruning and regular watering, gardeners can keep rhododendrons and azaleas vibrant year after year — ensuring a ... — Acid-based fertilizer (often labeled for rhodies, azaleas, camellias, and/or conifers) can help get them established and enhance their blooming. Make sure the planting area is free of weeds for at least two years and water is important for new plants. · Newly planted shrubs, trees, etc should be checked ... Unlike many other shrubs, azaleas and rhododendrons require no regular pruning, only the removal of any damaged or dead wood. Older plants can become leggy, if ... When placing plants, always choose locations that mitigate extreme temperature changes, especially in spring and fall, and provide protection from drying summer ... — Apply a 3 inch mulch of acidic material such as chipped conifer bark, being sure not to compress it too much which will prevent any aeration.
