Azaleas

Heavy bloomers, these striking shrubs boast long bloom times and a range of color palettes sure to please every gardener. For best results, plant your azalea in a sunny to partly shady spot with well-drained soil. Though most azaleas are deciduous, meaning they lose their leaves in winter, some varieties are evergreen, adding lush, year-round color to the landscape.

Azalea Shrubs from Michigan Bulb Company

Heavy bloomers, these striking shrubs boast long bloom times and a range of color palettes sure to please every gardener. Sometimes called "the royalty of the garden," azalea plants are known for their striking green leaves and vibrant, even neon-toned blooms. Azaleas are members of the rhododendron genus, and both azaleas and "rhodies" boast trumpet-shaped flowers that look downright tropical. From small hardy azaleas to tall, vibrant varieties, there's an azalea shrub to suit every style of garden. Most azaleas are deciduous, meaning they lose their leaves in winter, but some varieties are evergreen, adding lush, year-round color to the landscape.

For best results, plant your azalea shrub in a sunny to partly shady spot with well-drained, slightly acidic soil. While azaleas have shallow roots, these plants can be drought tolerant once established. Trim your azalea periodically to maintain its shape and encourage bushy growth. Azaleas can be planted in containers as well- just make sure that there is plenty of space for the roots to spread out. These plants thrive best in loamy, well-drained soil with some acidity, so consider soil needs when preparing your beds or containers.

Growing azalea bushes in your garden is easier than you think! For tips on how to care for these colorful perennials and other garden favorites, check out our tips for foolproof gardening page. If you're looking to add to your garden landscape, be sure to explore our other trees and shrubs for sale.

Questions about Azaleas

When should you plant azaleas?

Azaleas should be planted in spring, when the weather is still cool and the plants are dormant. Planting in spring allows the shrubs to "wake up" in their new habitat. Choose a planting site with well-draining soil, indirect light, and a bit of protection from wind and harsh weather.

Because azaleas require well-drained, airy soil, you can add compost or loam while aerating your soil before planting. This can be tough if your winter runs late, so wait until the ground thaws. Azaleas ordered from Michigan Bulb will be shipped at the right time for planting, and you can plant them at the depth at which they were potted. Planting azaleas is fairly foolproof!

How much sun do azaleas need?

Azaleas are full sun plants, but they can be burnt by harsh sunlight in warm climates. In places with very hot summers, we recommend setting your azaleas in a location where they receive morning sun, but shade in the afternoon.

Should soil for azaleas be enriched with compost?

Compost is a great enrichment for azalea soil. These plants require a light, airy planting medium, and compost can keep your soil from becoming compacted. Compost also adds a little acidity to the soil, which azaleas appreciate. If you live in an area with heavy clay soil, it may be alkaline-the opposite of acidic-a soil acidifier might be right for you. You can find that product at your local garden center.

How often should you water azaleas?

Azaleas should be watered once or twice a week, depending upon climate and on how long they've been in the garden. New azalea plants can be quite thirsty. Keep the soil moist, but not saturated, and use mulch to help your azaleas maintain that moisture.