Rhododendron Homebush - Knaphill Azalea

Plant Azalea 'Homebush' in full sun or partial shade, protected from cold and drying winds, in a cool, humus-bearing, light soil with an acidic tendency. Like all plants that prefer ericaceous soil, it does not tolerate chalky or heavy soils that become waterlogged in winter. Dig a hole three times larger than the pot. Soak the root ball in non-chalky water and plant the bush at the level of the collar in a mixture composed of organic matter, leaf mold, gravel or pumice, and loam. Water thoroughly and keep the soil moist in summer. Azaleas and Rhododendrons have a shallow root system, so they are susceptible to long periods of drought. Enrich the soil with humus and provide abundant watering during dry periods. Additionally, this weak root system necessitates lightening heavy soils with draining materials (gravel, pumice, clay pellets) at planting. Apply a mulch of shredded pine bark around the base of the bush every spring to maintain soil moisture while preserving an acidic pH. Maintenance consists of removing faded flowers in summer and pruning out dead branches. Azaleas and Rhododendrons can sometimes be attacked by weevils that eat the edges of leaves and rootlets, as well as the famous "rhododendron beetle," which rarely causes significant damage. Yellowing of leaves (chlorosis) in Rhododendrons indicates poor iron assimilation in the soil and can lead to premature plant death. While limestone is often the cause, poorly drained soil or deeply planted root balls can also explain this condition.