Problems with Ever-Blooming Azaleas

Ever-blooming azaleas bloom twice each year instead of once, providing a longer flowering period than other azalea varieties. The shrubs flower once in spring, then again from midsummer until the first frost, and are available in a range of colors. These azaleas aren't immune to problems, and proper cultural care is vital to ensure they remain healthy.

Petal blight causes flowers to to die early, after first becoming discolored and slimy. It affects ever-blooming azaleas mainly in spring, when temperatures are cooler and there is more moisture in the air. Caused by a fungus, blight survives in the dead blossoms that remain on the azalea or in the mulch surrounding the shrub. During a cool, wet summer, the blight may return and kill off the second blooming. Removal of old blossoms and mulch prevents the fungus from surviving beyond spring.

Azaleas prefer cool temperatures and partial shade. Too much heat or sun causes leaf scorching and may inhibit bloom, particularly during the second summer flowering period when temperatures are higher. Proper water management and afternoon shade will help to prevent scorching. Planting on the east side of buildings so the azaleas receive morning light but are shaded through the heat of the day prevents most scorching problems. Azaleas have shallow roots and require regular watering to remain healthy. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, especially during the hot, dry periods of summer.

Round green or brown balls on foliage, stems or flowers indicate azalea leaf gall. Shrubs are most susceptible in spring when conditions are moist and cool. Gall on petals prevents the flowers from reaching maturity or may cause premature petal loss. Pick off galls as soon as they appear, and treat azaleas with a fungicide in spring if the galls persist. Proper spacing and pruning also prevents leaf gall from damaging plants.