Azalea Rhododendron 'Gibraltar' (K)

Water

Azaleas require consistent moisture and should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Watering should be done with care to avoid wetting the foliage, which could promote disease. Provide about one inch of water weekly, which roughly translates to 0.623 gallons per square foot every seven days. During hot and dry periods, this may need to be increased to twice a week, but always check soil moisture before watering. If the plant is in a pot, ensure that excess water can freely drain from the bottom.

Light

Azaleas thrive in partial shade or filtered light conditions. They should be placed in a spot where they are protected from harsh afternoon sun, which can scorch their leaves. Morning sun with afternoon shade or dappled sunlight throughout the day is ideal for the Azalea 'Gibraltar'.

Temperature

Azaleas prefer moderate temperatures and do best when the temperature range is between 60°F and 80°F. They can survive minimum temperatures down to about 20°F but are at risk of cold damage below this threshold. They should be protected from extreme heat above 90°F, since high temperatures can stress the plant.

Pruning

Azaleas should be pruned to maintain shape, size, and to remove dead or diseased wood. The best time to prune is just after the blooms have faded in the spring; this allows time for new growth that will produce next year's flowers. Pruning is generally done annually, but light shaping can be done as needed throughout the year, avoiding late summer or fall which can remove next season's buds.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Azaleas, the common name for Rhododendron 'Gibraltar', thrive in well-draining, acidic soil with a pH of 4.5 to 6.0. A mix of 50% peat moss or well-composted pine bark and 50% perlite or coarse sand is ideal to ensure good drainage and aeration. Regular soil testing and adjustments can help maintain the appropriate acidity levels for optimal growth.

Repotting

Azaleas should generally be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when they become root-bound. Rhododendron 'Gibraltar' will benefit from being moved to a slightly larger container with fresh, acidic potting mix to encourage healthy growth and blooming.

Humidity & Misting

Azaleas prefer moderate to high humidity levels, ideally around 50-60%. If the surrounding air is too dry, the leaves of Rhododendron 'Gibraltar' may wilt or brown at the edges, so ensuring adequate humidity is crucial for the plant's wellbeing.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place azaleas near a bright window, avoid direct hot sun.

• Outdoor

  For azaleas, plant in dappled shade, water regularly.

• Hardiness zone

  5-8 USDA

Life cycle

Rhododendron 'Gibraltar', commonly known as Azalea, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in moist, acidic soil with partial shade. Once sprouted, the seedling grows into a young plant with a developing root system and foliage, requiring consistent moisture and protection from extreme conditions. During its juvenile stage, Azalea will establish itself and mature into a flowering shrub over several years, typically blooming in spring with vibrant orange to red flowers. After pollination, often by insects, the flowers produce seed capsules, which eventually dry and release seeds to begin a new cycle. Azaleas are perennial plants, and with proper care, this stage of flowering and seed production can recur annually for many years. During its mature phase, the plant requires periodic pruning to encourage new growth and maintain a desirable shape.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method of propagation for the Rhododendron 'Gibraltar', commonly known as azalea, is by semi-hardwood cuttings. This process is typically done in late summer after the blooms have faded and the new growth has started to mature and harden slightly. To propagate, select healthy, non-flowered shoots and cut a 4 to 6 inch section (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters). Strip the lower leaves and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix, ensuring the bottom two-thirds of the cutting is buried. Cover the cutting and pot with a plastic bag to maintain high humidity, and place it in a warm area with indirect light. Roots generally develop in several weeks, after which the plastic can be removed, and the cutting gradually acclimated to less humid conditions before being planted outside.