Getting themselves established before the sultry summer arrives can make all the difference in the world. Mixing cool weather annuals in with your new or existing perennials and shrubs is also fun. Many plants will go dormant or rest at our first hard frost, so incorporating fall annuals will keep your yards the envy of the block. Call us, e-mail, or stop in for ideas and suggestions on keeping your garden colorful year round. Both Azaleas and Rhododendrons rank along the South's favorite shrubs, although Azaleas are much more common because they are much more accommodating in our area.
Azaleas require acid soil and a constant water supply.
They need soil that is both fast draining to prevent rot and yet moisture retentive because they are shallow rooted. Soils rich in organic matter often have these desired qualities. Mulching well with pine straw or wood bark will also help with moisture retention. The well known varieties of Azaleas are evergreen. Pink or Red Ruffles, which are considered semi-dwarf two to three feet, are doubles with ruffled edges and larger blooms.