(Azalea x 'Conlep')
Encore Azalea 'Autumn Twist' (Rhododendron Hybrid) Feeding Instructions
Fertilize your azaleas just as the buds start to show some color in Spring, and again, if needed, lightly in late Summer (not beyond August in the South). Use a slow-release, acidifying fertilizer than contains some iron. Avoid extreme amounts of nitrogen (the first number in fertilizer) and phosphorous (such as "bloom boosters") Refer to product label for application rates and instruction.
Encore Azalea 'Autumn Twist' (Rhododendron Hybrid) Pruning Instructions
Encore Azaleas require very little pruning to retain good form and do not need "dead-heading." If you think your Encore Azalea needs pruning, do so immediately after the Spring flowering for maximum bud set. Use hand pruners to cut back branches that have outgrown the rest and to remove any dead branches or one's that spoil the shape of the plant. If your older, mature azaleas have become spindly or have become overgrown, rejuvination pruning may be necessary. The correct method for rejuvenation pruning is to cut back to a 6 inch stumps or less. This is the only way to remove all of the old wood and provide the plant with one hundred percent juvenile wood loaded with leaf buds. Azaleas are one of the many plants that respond beautifully to heavy rejuvenation pruning. The best time to perform rejuvination pruning is right before your plants would ordinarily flush out with new growth in the Spring. Do not fertilize the plant after rejuvination pruning.
Encore Azalea 'Autumn Twist' (Rhododendron Hybrid) Pest Instructions
For the most part, azaleas are a low maintenace plant. Even so, there are a few problems with pests and diseases that may arise from time to arise. If the leaves of your azaleas look as though they've had the green sucked out of them, they've probably been visited by lacebugs, thrips or mites. One of the best ways to prevent them is with a Spring treatment of Bayer Tree & Shrub Protection, or spray with a product containing neem oil. In regards to disease, leaf gall (swelling of leaves) may show up in Spring. Simply cut away affected leaves and discard. Powdery mildew (white powdery fungus on leaves) can be controlled with neem oil, or a broad spectrum fungicide. If numerous black spots are present on leaves, or if leaves are browning back from the tips, this could be an indicator for root-rot. Root-rot usually occurs when there is too much moisture in the soil. Azaleas do not like wet feet! Replant and raise them up if necessary, or relocate them to a site that provides better drainage. Yellowing of foliage could be an indicator of iron deficiency. Scorching of foliage may mean too much sun. Only the Southern Indica Azaleas will tolerate full sun. Most others prefer morning sun only.