Recommendations for the Care and Maintenance of Newly Planted Azaleas and Rhododendrons Provided that a few simple horticultural practices are carried out, there is no other shrub that will give greater reward for less attention than Rhododendrons and Azaleas. WATERING Proper watering is the key to the successful establishment of Rhododendrons and Azaleas. These plants are shallow rooted and require ample watering during their first growing season. In the summer months they require ½" to 1" of water per week; however, root rot may occur if plants are overwatered. Monitor watering closely during the first growing season. Early morning or late the afternoon is the best time to water. MULCHING Mulching new plants with 2" to 4" inches of shredded hardwood or pine bark mulch is recommended to retain soil moisture, control weeds and reduce soil temperature fluctuations. Replenish with 1" of new mulch each year or as needed. FERTILIZER Due to the high soil pH in Southeastern Wisconsin, adding soil sulphur to the planting area of new Rhododendrons and Azaleas is recommended. This creates a better growing environment for the plants. Future fertilization should be done using a nitrogen source, such as ammonium sulfate (often called "Rhododendron, Azalea or Camellia Fertilizer"). Fertilizer should be placed over the mulch or lightly cultivated into the root zone and watered in. Be careful not to leave any fertilizer on the foliage of the plant. Follow the instructions on the package for each brand of fertilizer. PRUNING Rhododendrons and Azaleas seldom need pruning. However, if you desire to shape or trim them, pruning should be done in Spring immediately after flowering has ended. WINTER PROTECTION Broadleaf evergreens (such as Rhododendrons and Azaleas) and other tender plants are susceptible to the drying effects of the winter sun and wind. Plants with the greatest southern and western exposures will be the ones most affected during the winter months. Rabbits, mice and other small animals enjoy the winter buds and bark; therefore, plants should be protected. One of the best ways to protect plants from animal damage is to place a cylinder of 1/4” hardware cloth around the entire shrub. (Hardware cloth is a wire mesh product available at most hardware stores). The cylinder should be 30” to 36” high and anchored to the ground by placing topsoil or mulch around the base of the enclosure. To protect plants from sun and wind, burlap may be placed around the cylinder or around the shrub before the cylinder is installed. Remove the cylinder in Spring (usually by April 20th) and save for the next Winter. Please feel free to contact Stano Landscaping, Inc. at 414-358-1800 with any of your landscape questions or concerns.