Azalea japonica ‘Alba’ is a stunning evergreen shrub that produces an abundance of pure white flowers in spring. With its compact growth habit, it’s perfect for borders, containers, or as a foundation plant. Thrives in partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.
Azalea japonica ‘Alba’ is a compact evergreen shrub cherished for its abundant white spring blooms and soft green foliage. With proper care, it will thrive and add elegance to your garden.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: Plant Azalea japonica ‘Alba’ in early spring when the soil begins to warm. This allows roots to establish before active growth.
Autumn: Alternatively, planting in early autumn gives the shrub time to settle before dormancy, ensuring robust growth in the following spring.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Azalea japonica ‘Alba’ prefers partial shade for the best flower production and to prevent leaf scorch. A location with dappled sunlight or morning sun is ideal.
Soil: Acidic, well-drained soil rich in organic matter is essential. Azalea struggles in heavy, alkaline, or waterlogged soils.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width and the same depth as the root ball to allow the roots room to spread.
Enhance the Soil: Mix ericaceous compost or organic matter into the soil to maintain the acidity and improve fertility.
Position the Plant: Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Avoid planting too deeply.
Backfill and Water: Gently backfill the hole, firming the soil to remove air pockets, and water thoroughly to help the roots establish.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Azalea prefers regular watering, especially during dry spells.
Dormant Season: Reduce watering frequency during dormancy, providing moisture only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Feeding
Spring: Apply a balanced, slow-release ericaceous fertiliser in early spring to support healthy growth and vibrant flowers.
Summer: A mid-summer feed can enhance the overall health and encourage additional blooms for the next season.
Pruning
Deadheading: Remove faded blooms to tidy the plant and direct energy toward foliage and future flowering.
Light Pruning: After flowering, trim lightly to shape the shrub and remove any damaged or leggy branches. Avoid heavy pruning as Azalea sets next year’s buds shortly after flowering.
Mulching
Spring: Spread a layer of organic mulch, such as bark or leaf mould, around the base of Azalea japonica ‘Alba’ to retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds. Keep mulch away from the trunk to prevent rot.
Autumn: Renew the mulch layer to protect the roots and support the plant through winter.
Supporting the Plant
Azalea japonica ‘Alba’ is naturally compact and does not require staking. However, it benefits from being shielded from strong winds, which can damage flowers and foliage.
Final Tips
Azalea japonica ‘Alba’ is an elegant addition to borders, containers, or foundation plantings. By planting in partial shade, using acidic soil, and providing consistent care, this evergreen shrub will reward you with its dazzling white blooms each spring, enhancing your garden’s beauty year after year.
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Jane (verified owner) –
Very healthy plants – plenty of buds