They grow easily from seed, and established plants may be divided to increase your stock. They require partial shade in hot climates, regular water during the growing season and a fast-draining soil. Azaleas grow best where they receive afternoon shade and prosper in well-mulched acidic soil. Azaleas should be fertilized just before they bloom. In the North most can be grown in full sun.
Various species produce white, pink, yellow or purple blooms.
Today more than 500 varieties are available in the United States in a range of colors including white, pink, red, lilac and blue. Dazzling white flowers are also produced by fothergilla, a deciduous shrub related to witch hazel. Dogwoods prefer afternoon shade even in the North, although well-established trees may survive full sun without too much tip burn. In the United States some of the most widely planted spring bloomers are redbud and crabapple trees. Redbuds produce pink, purplish-red or white flowers and can reach a height of about 30'.