Planting and mulching. Azaleas are usually planted in beds. Prepare the planting site several weeks before planting. In preparing the bed, place a mix of 50 percent sharp sand and 50 percent organic matter over the ground and work it thoroughly into the soil to a depth of about 1 foot. If soil test results indicate that pH adjustments are needed, it is best to apply the recommended materials as you prepare the bed.
Azaleas are fibrous, shallow-rooted plants.
When planting container-grown plants, disturb the roots to break the circular pattern. It may be necessary to make vertical cuts into the root ball to break the circular pattern. Do not plant any deeper than the plant was originally planted in the container. Planting azaleas deeper than the original planted depth assures disastrous results. Apply 2 to 4 inches of pine straw, pine bark, or other suitable mulch material after planting.