How to Cultivate Azaleas Properly
A brief knowledge sharing article introducing how to cultivate azaleas well and key points for their care, coming up next is the introduction by our editor.
Azaleas, also known as Rhododendron, usually bloom in spring. It is one of the top ten famous flowers in China, with its vibrant colors and graceful posture, making it suitable for potted display. Azaleas prefer to grow in an environment with ample diffused light and cannot be exposed to direct sunlight. During the growing period, it is essential to keep the soil moist, with temperatures maintained between 15 to 28 degrees Celsius, the soil should be loose and breathable, with good drainage and preferably acidic.
1. Light
Azaleas require ample light during their growth process. Appropriate lighting should be provided during maintenance to enable photosynthesis and promote healthy growth. The best light is diffused sunlight, which can be received all day during spring and autumn, while in summer, when sunlight is intense, adequate shading is necessary.
2. Watering
During the growing season, it is crucial to ensure the soil remains moist. Water once every 7 days during spring and autumn, and water a small amount daily during summer to keep the potting soil moist, and spray some water on the leaves to cool them down. In winter, with lower temperatures and slower evaporation, water should be applied only when the soil is dry.
3. Fertilizing
Azalea roots are fine and have a较弱 ability to absorb nutrients, so fertilizing should be done with thin and frequent applications, avoiding thick fertilizers. In spring, to promote the growth of branches, leaves, and flower buds, apply nitrogen fertilizer once a week. In summer, when azaleas start to enter a dormant state, fertilizing should be stopped, as it may cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. Apply phosphorus fertilizer once every half month in autumn to promote flower bud growth in preparation for blooming the following year.
4. Soil
Azaleas thrive in acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5, ensuring the soil is fertile and has good drainage to reduce the occurrence of root diseases. Professional flower soil can be purchased for cultivation, or a mixture of decomposed leaf soil, garden soil, and river sand can be used in a ratio of 5:2:3.
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