Autumn Sunset® Encore® Azalea

1. Planting: When planting azaleas, dig a hole three times the width of the root ball. Plant in spring or fall, avoiding freezing and extremely hot temperatures. Azaleas thrive in full sun to part shade, with Encore azaleas performing best with at least 4-6 hours of sun. While they can still grow and bloom in shade, they are less likely to rebloom and the blooms won't be as prolific.

2. Watering: Remember to soak the plant with a hose to hydrate it, and to settle the soil and mulch. Establish a regular watering schedule based on your plant's needs and the local weather patterns. Keep in mind that overwatering can be just as, if not more, harmful than underwatering.

3. Fertilizing: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Fertilize in late winter or early spring before flowering. Apply 3-4 inches of mulch to retain moisture, but avoid covering the rootball. Azaleas prefer acidic, well-draining soil. Amend alkaline soil with compost, elemental sulfur, or acidic fertilizers. Mulch with pine straw or pine bark over time. Improve drainage in heavy clay soil with compost before planting.

4. Pruning: You don’t need to prune Encore azaleas, but pruning after they bloom can encourage bushier growth and renew an older plant. Control size through pruning, but don't remove more than 1/3 of the plant for best results.