When watering azaleas, you must pay special attention to the soil. These plants love moisture and need to be watered regularly to stay healthy. If the soil is too dry, the plant may succumb to fungus or wilting blooms. Watering at the right time will also help prevent root disease.

Before winter, water azaleas thoroughly and mulch the soil with organic mulch. The mulch helps retain moisture and minimizes temperature fluctuations. Since azaleas have shallow roots, mulching the soil will also help you water the plants less often. Mulch can contain shredded leaves, pine needles, or fine-bark mix.

Azalea Alba Magnifica comes in deciduous and evergreen types, but all types benefit from the same basic growing conditions. Deciduous varieties can survive colder climates, but they need more sun. Deciduous varieties are tolerant of a wider range of temperatures. Deciduous azaleas will bloom for up to five months.

Deciduous azaleas can be propagated by division. Deciduous varieties are stoloniferous, meaning they send out shoots. To divide an azalea, dig out a few shoots and include separate root systems. The new plants can be potted or planted in the garden.

Choosing the right location is very important. Azaleas prefer dappled light or partial shade. Morning sun is ideal for blooming, but afternoon shade is best for growth. You should avoid placing them under trees and walls, which can cause leaf scorching and defoliation.

Azalea Alba Magnifica best in acidic soils. In alkaline areas, they should be grown in raised beds. They should be about 15 to 18 inches deep and filled with coarse sphagnum peat moss. The pH of the soil should be between 4.5 and six. If you have high-pH soil, you should amend the soil, making sure to mix a few tablespoons of organic matter in the soil before planting the plants.

Azaleas are susceptible to pests and diseases. Some common pests are lace bugs and caterpillars. You can handpick them or treat them with insecticidal soap. Other pests include bark scale and leaf miners. Both of these can wreak havoc on the flowering process. To prevent these problems, water the plant properly and treat any symptoms early in the spring.

Azaleas need proper care to look their best. Taking cuttings of the plants can help you grow more plants. Vegetative propagation is another great option if you have a favorite azalea in your garden. This can be beneficial when the original plant is damaged or relocated.