This action will help roots to spread out and grow away from the original ball of container potting medium. Azaleas can be planted any time of year if proper attention is given to providing adequate water. Most people buy azaleas in the spring when the plants are blooming so they can choose the right color combinations. Fall is probably the best time to plant, however, because the plants then can become better established before hot weather. Carefully consider your planting sites for azaleas.
Azaleas receiving some shade during the winter usually suffer less cold damage.
And, during hot weather, the flowers last longer on plants in filtered shade. Late-blooming varieties need to be in partial shade to prevent sunscald to the flowers. Pine trees with moderate filtered shade give ideal protection for azaleas. However, heavy shade throughout the day may reduce the flower production and result in weak growth. Evergreen trees or tall shrubs with low branches make good windbreaks and attractive backgrounds for an azalea planting.