Caring for Red Azaleas in Humid Summers and Mild Winters

seedsavvyshirley

I've been looking into adding red azaleas to my garden for a vibrant pop of color, but I'm unsure about how to best care for them in a region with mild winters and humid summers. Has anyone had success growing these in similar conditions? I'm particularly interested in tips on soil preparation and amendments, ideal watering routines, and the best pruning practices to maximize blooming.

Also, if anyone has recommendations on specific red azalea cultivars that are both visually striking and disease-resistant, that would be really helpful. Any insights on dealing with common challenges like pests, fungal issues, or maintenance tips would be much appreciated!

RoseRanger

I recently had some luck tweaking the soil by incorporating ericaceous compost and ensuring excellent drainage around my red azaleas. In our region's humid summers, watering early in the day—so the foliage dries quickly—has helped reduce fungal issues. I’ve also noticed that occasional mistings with a milk-water mix can ward off some common pests. If I were to pick a cultivar, I'd lean toward ones known for their disease resistance like 'Girardon.' Good luck, and I’d love to hear how yours fare!