Stewartstonian azalea is a arresting evergreen shrub that bursts into color every spring Once prove , these mature shrubs put on an eye - catching flowered exhibit that stops garden visitant in their track . Their versatility also makes Stewartstonian azaleas an splendid choice for garden large and little . have ’s take a tight look at why this plant is so popular .
An Overview of Stewartstonian Azalea
Stewartstonian azalea ( Rhododendron ‘ Stewartstonian ’ ) is a broadleaf evergreen shrub in the genus Rhododendron . It is a fellow member of the Gable loanblend azalea mathematical group , in the beginning developed by horticulturalist Joseph Gable of Stewartson , Pennsylvania .
This average - sized plant grows to around 4 - 5 feet tall and wide at maturity date . It has calendered unripened farewell that take on cherry - brown hues in winter . lustrous orange - red blooms embrace the shrub in spring , lasting about 2 - 3 weeks . The flowers have a spicy clove scent that perfumes the garden .
Stewartstonian azalea thrives in zones 5 - 8 It prefers moist , acidulent soil and afternoon shade in hot climate Once established , it is fairly drought - large-minded . This azalea flush on old wood , so cut immediately after blossoming .
The Advantages of a Full Grown Specimen
One of the best character of Stewartstonian azalea is that it ’s slow growing . This mean it may take 3 - 5 old age to reach mature size . But once it does , you ’ll have a lavish , full big shrub with maximal optical impact .
A mature Stewartstonian azalea will be handle in 100 of hopeful reddish - orange blooms in spring . Few other plants can match this saturation of color . The floral display typically lasts 2 - 3 hebdomad .
The bloom appear before the leaves emerge , leave them to really stand out . Plant Stewartstonian azalea next to evergreens like Buddy Holly for good contrast .
Full fully grown Stewartstonian azaleas are thick , rounded shrubs with good foliage reportage . Their glossy green leaves provide involvement during the rest of the yr . In drop , some leaf may turn reddish - brown for surplus color .
Since they blossom on previous wood , fledged plants produce more flowers each sequent year . right pruning boost vigorous new growth that leads to more blooms .
These hardy shrub are also more drought tolerant when their root systems are well established . Plus , their development rate slows down dramatically , minimise maintenance .
How to Grow Strong Stewartstonian Azaleas
Here are some tips for successfully growing Stewartstonian azalea shrubs to due date :
Site in part sun or light afternoon shadowiness , specially in southerly climate . They need some protection from hot afternoon sun .
Plant in rich , acidic , moisture - retentive soil . Incorporate organic stuff like compost or true pine needles to ameliorate drain .
water system 1 in per week for the first 2 geezerhood , until the roots are established . Then water supply only during extended drouth .
Apply an acid fertiliser per annum , and mulch around the base with pine needles or barque chips .
Prune directly after bloom by selectively trimming errant branch . Never fleece these plants into tight globes .
Monitor for common azalea pests like lacing bugs and Caterpillar . Treat with organic methods first before using chemical controls .
Where to Use Full Grown Stewartstonian Azaleas
Here are some ideal utilisation for showy , full grown Stewartstonian azalea shrubs :
works as a focal point or specimen shrub in the landscape . Allow plenty of blank for it to reach its ripe size .
Group multiple azaleas together for a stunning display of spring coloring . Be sure to leave 3 - 4 foot between plants .
Use as an anchorman plant in a interracial border or foundation planting . Combine with lower - growing perennials and groundcovers .
flora along walkways , entryways or around patios where the floral display can be admired up close .
Grow in woodland gardens combined with fern , hostas and other specter - lovers . Stewartsonian azalea thrive under grandiloquent deciduous tree .
admit in rock gardens , raised planters or container . Their shallow roots accommodate well to restricted blank space .
Caring for a Mature Stewartstonian Azalea
Proper precaution is crucial to keep a full grown Stewartstonian azalea look its good class after yr :
water system deeply once a week during drought and extreme heat . Otherwise , mature plants are quite drought - hardy .
feed in former spring and again after flowering with an acidulous formula made for azalea and rhododendrons .
Prune only to form the plant after blooming . Never shear azaleas into tight balls .
employ a brisk bed of pine bark mulch around the infrastructure each year . This helps keep back soil moisture and acidity .
Monitor regularly for common azalea pests like lace bug , spider jot and caterpillar . Treat only if an infestation occurs .
Remove drop bloom promptly before ejaculate pod form . Deadheading prolongs the bloom stop .
With the right care , a mature Stewartstonian azalea will thrive for decade , provide gorgeous fountain colour yr after year . If you have the patience to foster it to full size , this plant will handsomely reward your crusade .
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Azalea ‘Stewartsonian’ // Evergreen Azalea with Brilliant ❤️ Red Flowers
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