Cultivation methods and precautions of Western azalea

1. Lighting conditions

Azalea needs plenty of sunlight during its growth stage, otherwise it will affect the growth of flower buds and affect the blooming of flowers. In summer and early autumn, when the sun is too strong, the plant should be shaded. Too strong sunlight will cause the leaves of the azalea to wither and even cause the death of the plant. You need to pay attention to proper watering and spray clean water on the leaves to prevent the soil from drying out.

2. Soil quality requirements

The soil for growing this azalea is best mixed into nutrient soil in the ratio of two parts leaf mold, one part coarse river sand, and one part sandy loam. The lowest pH value of the soil is 5.5, and the highest is 6.5, which is more suitable. Slightly acidic, well-ventilated soil is conducive to plant growth, but sticky soil can easily cause root rot.

3. Fertilizer Application

Azalea needs to be fertilized every month. Do not use high-concentration or raw fertilizers. Regular fertilization can ensure the nutritional needs of the plant during the bud stage, making the flowers more colorful. If there is insufficient fertilizer, the flowers will be very small in number, and some plants may even have flower buds, but they will gradually turn into leaves and branches during the growth process, making us flower lovers happy in vain.

4. Breeding management

Potted azaleas need to be placed in a well-ventilated place indoors. If well cared for, the flowering period can last for a month. From July to August every year, the buds of rhododendron begin to appear. Move the plant indoors in early autumn and maintain the room temperature at 20 degrees. It will bloom after half a month. After flowering, you need to remove the withered flowers, prune the branches and carry out maintenance. The temperature affects the flowering of azalea. If the temperature is controlled reasonably, the plant can bloom on New Year's Day and the Spring Festival. If the outdoor temperature is not lower than minus five or six degrees Celsius, there will be no problem with the plants outdoors.

5. Notes

Dry and hot weather is common in autumn, and with it come diseases and pests of azalea. The leaves begin to turn yellow and develop white spots. In severe cases, all the leaves will fall off, and the plant will die.

If this situation starts to occur, be sure to cut off and destroy the diseased leaves first, and spray with carbendazim to sterilize. Spray once every 7 to 10 days and pay attention to air circulation.