Showy

Smothered in vibrant star-shaped blooms in every shade from pink, orange, red and yellow, these shrubs are also deliciously scented. Flower shapes do vary ...

‘The next step is to put a layer of 4-5cm of pine bark chips on top to finish off the pot,’ says Will Murch of azalea experts, Osberton Nurseries (opens in new tab). ‘As well as looking really smart they keep the roots cool, aerate the soil, keep moisture in and stop weeds from growing. Aim to sit the root ball an inch below the top of the pot and fill around the edges with compost, firming lightly. Azaleas generally need very little care and pruning but occasionally you may need to cut out a dead branch or reshape the shrub. Azaleas are shallow rooted and wide spreading, and they prefer their root ball to be just below the soil’s surface. When it comes to keeping your Azaleas strong and healthy there are a few points worth bearing in mind. Select a container with good drainage and that measures around 4 inches (10cm) less in diameter than the plant’s leaf spread or canopy. Growing up to 4-5ft (120-150cm) high in ten years they make a stunning statement in a border or on the edge of a woodland area. ‘The trick to growing azaleas successfully is to get the correct soil pH level,’ says Angharad James, product manager at Phostrogen. ‘Azaleas are a member of the ericaceous family, meaning they prefer a more acidic soil to other plants. Containing added iron and sulphur, these will help the plant to produce more blooms and keep foliage green and healthy. Their flowering period is from May to July, but their foliage puts on a stunning fall display just before the leaves drop. It’s worth knowing that azaleas have five or six stamens in the center of their blooms while rhododendron usually have ten or more. Azaleas make for a stunning addition to your flower bed ideas.