timing of fertilizer for azaleas, rhodies etc - wouldn't earlier be better? - Ask Extension
I have read that the proper time to fertilize the above is after blooming. Wouldn't the plants benefit from fertilizer prior to blooming? Maybe it h...
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timing of fertilizer for azaleas, rhodies etc - wouldn't earlier be better? #819729
Asked February 03, 2023, 6:48 PM EST
I have read that the proper time to fertilize the above is after blooming. Wouldn't the plants benefit from fertilizer prior to blooming? Maybe it harms them in some way?
My plants have neglected for many years - I'm adding soil acidifier to correct for PH. I was thinking early fertilizer might be good but ..... I know nothing.
Thanks so much in advance for your advice, Janet Lundeen
Marion County Oregon
Expert Response
Thank you for your question, Janet. Actually, waiting until after they bloom is when fertilizer is recommended. You can read about their care here: https://extension.oregonstate.edu/news/give-rhododendrons-azaleas-annual-check-each-spring#:~:text=Rhododendrons%20and%20azaleas%20prefer%20slightly,less%20frequently%20than%20chemical%20fertilizers.
And here is a more extensive one: https://catalog.extension.oregonstate.edu/fs12/html
Before you apply anything to change the pH, you might consider have a soil test for pH and nutrients, and request their recommendations for soil around azaleas. This article has a list of labs: https://catalog.extension.oregonstate.edu/em8677
Good luck!
And here is a more extensive one: https://catalog.extension.oregonstate.edu/fs12/html
Before you apply anything to change the pH, you might consider have a soil test for pH and nutrients, and request their recommendations for soil around azaleas. This article has a list of labs: https://catalog.extension.oregonstate.edu/em8677
Good luck!
