How to Grow and Care for Azalea Plants

Azalea plants are a perennial flowering shrub known for their joyfully vibrant blooms that come in a rainbow assortment of red, pink, purple, white, and other hues. They're part of the rhododendron family, and most varieties are deciduous, which means they shed their leaves in the fall and then provide a bountiful spray of color come spring. 

"Azaleas are a graceful accompaniment to any garden, adding delicacy and joy," says Courtney Sixx, co-founder of Bouquet Box. "They may also add a power punch to any garden with more vibrant color choices. You can plan the whole color scheme around them, or even stagger their blooms according to whether they are early, mid, or late bloomers."

While azaleas make for a dynamic addition to any yard, they're also an ideal plant to incorporate if you want to honor someone special. "Memories of loved ones are always my first choice for azaleas. You can plant one that blooms during the person's birth month or in their favorite color," Sixx says. 

This splendid shrub thrives in planting zones 6 through 9, though some types can handle the cooler temperatures of zones 4 and 5. Keep reading for everything you need to know about how to grow and care for an azalea plant, including tips for growing from seed, transplanting, and identifying and correcting distress. 

Adding Azaleas to Your Yard

If you want to add an azalea plant to your yard, you have two options: growing from seed or purchasing a mature plant.

Growing From Seed

Though azaleas can be grown from seed, it's considered a more challenging and time consuming route compared to starting from cuttings or a mature plant. "If you do decide to plant azaleas from seed, it's best to collect seeds from a mature plant and sow them in a well-draining potting mix and in a condition with warm temperatures, preferably around 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit," says Nikhil Arora, the co-founder and CEO of Back to the Roots. 

It may take several weeks, or even months, for the seeds to germinate—and then a few years for them to reach maturity and produce flowers. 

Purchasing Azalea Plants

To enjoy the beauty of azaleas from the get-go, opt for purchasing mature plants from a local nursery. Arora says to look for healthy foliage and well-developed buds, and to avoid any plants with signs of pests or disease, such as yellowing and wilting leaves. "Always check the plant tags for climate conditions and choose a plant that is best suited to your climate and growing conditions," says Arora. "Some varieties are better suited for warmer climates, while others do well in cooler regions."

How to Care for Azaleas 

While azalea plants are beautiful and widely loved for their blooms, they require some specific care and attention to thrive. It's important to be mindful of their preferred growing conditions, including soil acidity, light exposure, and watering needs, says Arora. This ensures you have healthy and vibrant azaleas in your garden. 

Soil

Azaleas do best when planted in well-draining, acidic soil. "The ideal soil pH is 4.5 to 6. I usually plant mine in half soil, half peat moss," says Sixx.

Fertilizer

To help maintain the proper soil pH, apply a balanced fertilizer specifically formulated for acid-loving plants in early spring. "This can help promote healthy growth and blooming," says Arora.

Light

Azaleas prefer a location with filtered—not direct—sunlight or partial shade.

Water

"Regular watering is important, especially during dry periods, but the soil should not be waterlogged," Arora says. 

Pruning

Pruning azaleas should be done after flowering to maintain their shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. The thick, woody stem requires sharp pruning shears. 

Clipping Flowers

The colorful foliage produced by azaleas is one of the biggest perks of this plant. You can bring the beauty indoors by clipping them. Harvest buds when they are open or nearly open. 

How to Transplant Azaleas

Transplanting azaleas is possible, but it's best to perform this task during the plant's dormant season in late fall or early spring. "Before transplanting, prepare the new location by ensuring it has well-drained soil and the proper light conditions," Arora says. "Dig a wide hole around the rootball of the plant and gently lift it out, taking care not to damage the roots. Then, place the azalea in the new hole, backfill with soil, and water thoroughly.” 

Mulching around the base of the transplanted plant can help conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature. 

Common Problems With Azaleas—and How to Fix Them

Once they've matured, azaleas do well on their own. Just like other plants, though, it's important to routinely check the foliage for signs of distress or infection. Be on the lookout for the following issues. 

Root Rot

Over-watering azaleas can lead to root rot. This occurs when the soil doesn't drain well, when there isn't proper drainage, and/or when you water too frequently. Aim to water your azalea plant in the morning so the sun can help dry up any excess water—and don't water more than once or twice per week.

Scorched Petals

"Scorched petals can occur if the plants are exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods, so providing shade or planting them in a location with filtered sunlight is recommended," Arora says. 

Bug Infestations 

Azaleas are susceptible to pests such as lace bugs, aphids, and spider mites. Signs of these critters include stippled leaves, black or brown spots (especially on the underside of leaves), and yellow or white discoloration. "Regular inspection of the plants and appropriate pest control measures, such as spraying with insecticidal soap or using organic methods, can help manage these issues," says Arora.