Arctic Rose Azalea

Azalea shrubs are the perfect bridge between the spring blooming bulbs and summer blooming perennials. Their cheery flowers and often evergreen leaves always look fresh and ready for any season. Arctic Rose Azalea has the added interest of a variegated leaf pattern to give interest to the garden even when its finished blooming. The large rose red blooms have a long blooming period of 2-3 weeks Evergreen Arctic Rose works well as one of the bones of the garden. It gives year round shape to planted areas while contrasting and blending well with bulbs, perennials and other blooming shrubs. In order to ensure May blooming, Arctic Rose should be planted in a spot that has protection from the harshest of the winter winds. Azalea Arctic Rose Care Azaleas prefer an acidic soil between 4.5- 6.0. The leaves of this evergreen shrub will tend to yellow when planted in alkaline soil. An acidic, slow release fertilizer should be applied after blooming is finished. This will help next years flower buds to form throughout the summer. The root systems of Azalea tend to be very shallow and do not like to be disturbed once established. Regular watering during dry periods may be needed to keep these plants thriving. Azaleas will do well in full sun, but late day shade so they can cool off in the summer is the best. Pruning of Arctic Rose should be done after the blooming period. Evergreen Azaleas bloom on the previous years growth. Arctic Rose Azalea would be a good subject for container planting. The smaller size of 3-4 feet tall and 4-5 feet wide would make a dramatic statement for any front porch. Azalea Arctic Rose Spacing The variegated leaves of Arctic Rose make this Azalea perfect as an individual focal point in the garden.Spring blooming bulbs are a natural combination. Any plants or bulbs need to be planted outside of the 3-4 foot radius so that they do not compete with the shallow roots of azalea. Azaleas can also be planted as a low growing hedge. The spacing for that will be 40-48 inches on center.