A compact evergreen shrub, producing a mass of stunning deep pink blooms covering the entire bush in May and June. Height and spread 60cm. Full sun/partial shade. Prefers moist, humus rich, well drained acid soil. Extremely hardy.
Azalea japonica ‘Kermesina’ is a stunning compact evergreen shrub, renowned for its profusion of deep pink blooms that cover the plant in May and June. Its manageable size, with a height and spread of 60 cm, makes it an excellent choice for borders, containers, or as a focal point in any garden. Follow this detailed planting guide to ensure Azalea japonica ‘Kermesina’ thrives in your garden.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Time to Plant
Spring: Plant Azalea japonica ‘Kermesina’ in spring, when the soil is warming, to give the roots ample time to establish before the growing season.
Autumn: Early autumn is another ideal time to plant, as it allows the shrub to settle before the cooler months, encouraging vigorous growth come spring.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Azalea prefers partial shade or dappled sunlight. Too much direct sun can damage the foliage, while overly shaded spots may limit blooming.
Soil: Acidic, moist, and well-drained soil is essential for Azalea. Amend the soil with ericaceous compost to achieve the ideal pH and ensure good drainage.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Planting Site: Dig a hole twice the width and the same depth as the root ball. This ensures the roots have enough space to grow.
Enhance the Soil: Mix ericaceous compost or well-rotted organic matter into the soil to improve its acidity and structure.
Planting: Position the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the ground surface. Backfill gently, firming the soil to remove air pockets.
Water Thoroughly: After planting, water your Azalea generously to help settle the soil around the roots.
Watering Requirements
Regular Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid waterlogging, as Azalea is sensitive to overly wet conditions.
Dry Periods: During dry spells, water deeply to prevent stress, ensuring the soil does not dry out completely.
Feeding
In early spring, apply a slow-release ericaceous fertiliser to support healthy growth and vibrant flowering. Repeat in mid-summer to maintain plant vigour.
Pruning
After Flowering: Lightly prune your Azalea after its blooms fade to shape the plant and remove spent flowers.
General Maintenance: Remove any dead or damaged branches to encourage air circulation and reduce disease risk.
Mulching
Spring and Autumn: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as bark or leaf mold, around the base of your Azalea. Mulching helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Winter Protection
While Azalea japonica ‘Kermesina’ is extremely hardy, a layer of mulch in winter can offer extra protection to the roots in colder climates.
Growing in Containers
Azalea japonica ‘Kermesina’ thrives in pots with ericaceous compost. Ensure good drainage by using containers with holes and adding grit to the soil mix.
Final Tips
Azalea japonica ‘Kermesina’ is a hardy and low-maintenance shrub that adds stunning colour to any garden. By providing acidic, well-drained soil and partial shade, and by following this planting and care guide, you’ll enjoy a spectacular display of blooms every spring. Incorporate Azalea japonica ‘Kermesina’ into your outdoor space for an elegant, easy-to-grow addition to your garden.
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Beverley Seymour (verified owner) –
Anonymous (verified owner) –