Azales and poppies not blooming - Ask Extension
Most of my azaleas didn't bloom this spring or last; the ones that bloomed are not very prolific. also, my poppy plant only has one bud, no big poppy ...
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Azales and poppies not blooming #866908
Asked May 03, 2024, 1:55 PM EDT
Most of my azaleas didn't bloom this spring or last; the ones that bloomed are not very prolific. also, my poppy plant only has one bud, no big poppy blossoms. What could be wrong? What should I do now?
Washington County Oregon
Expert Response
Thank you for your questions. (1). Azaleas that don't bloom most commonly have been pruned so late in the year that next year's buds have been removed. This has information about correct pruning: https://extension.oregonstate.edu/sites/default/files/documents/12281/pruningtreesshrubs.pdf
They may also have been given fertilizer too heavy with nitrogen, or the soil pH may be too high, as explained here: https://extension.oregonstate.edu/news/give-rhododendrons-azaleas-annual-check-each-spring
(2). Poppies typically bloom only once per season. Without photos or testing, we can't determine whether they are planted in the wrong place, need fertilizer, or have improper watering conditions: This article indicates their needs: https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/papaver-orientale/
I hope these are helpful. Good luck!
They may also have been given fertilizer too heavy with nitrogen, or the soil pH may be too high, as explained here: https://extension.oregonstate.edu/news/give-rhododendrons-azaleas-annual-check-each-spring
(2). Poppies typically bloom only once per season. Without photos or testing, we can't determine whether they are planted in the wrong place, need fertilizer, or have improper watering conditions: This article indicates their needs: https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/papaver-orientale/
I hope these are helpful. Good luck!
Thank you for helpful information and links.
Jean Harkin
Welcome!
