Caston Naroolah, Dekalb County Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Agent presented our program.

 

Native plants are adapted to our environmental conditions, weather, and insects, tend to do better than non-natives and require less maintenance. All azaleas are in the Rhododendron family. Azaleas are in 2 classes: Evergreen (Japan/China) or Deciduous (Native). Native azaleas have a long stamen and more dramatic flowers. The bush size can range from 3 to 20 feet tall. Various types and flower colors were mentioned. Some examples: Alabama, Piedmont, Flame, Sweet/Smooth, Coastal (Dwarf), Swamp, Florida, Cumberland, Oconee, Plum leaf. Piedmont Azaleas tend to grow well here.

 

Some local nurseries selling native azaleas were mentioned: Chattahoochee Nature Center plant sale, Beech Hollow Farms in Scottsdale, Kinsey Family Farms, Cottage Garden Natives, possibly Pike Nurseries, and the Azalea Farm (Robert Heiss Farm).

 

A chart with height, name, bloom time will soon be sent out to members via an email with attachment. The speaker noted that azaleas can be staggered for their bloom time so that flowering can occur from March through October. Hybrids have been introduced that can further extend this bloom time.

 

Advice for planting: tall in back, short in front, 3 or more of same cultivar and bloom colors that don't clash will provide a less random look in the landscape. Shopping for azaleas is best when they are in bloom so that true colors can be seen. Inspect the roots for any damage or root rot before purchasing. Fall is preferred for planting so roots can establish before hot weather.

 

Most and well-drained soil is best, filtered sun with morning sun and afternoon shade preferred. Avoid sidewalks, walls, drives as these generate excess heat that can stress the azaleas. Wet soil is to be avoided but azaleas do need rainfall at regular intervals. Acidic soil is best and a soil test is recommended. Usually there is no need for fertilizer, just mulch with organic matter. Azaleas require shallow planting with a shallow hole 2 - 3 times wider than the bush with 1/3 to 1/2 mix of organic material with the rest native soil. Only prune for lankiness or a dead limb and prune after flowering. When thinning, cut a limb back to the trunk of the plant, not trimming across the top.