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What should I do with this azalea?

BerkleyBerkley Posts: 431
in Plants

This was in flower (forced, obviously) when I was given it last Christmas ...... I repotted it in ericaceous compost, kept it shaded and moist outside throughout the Summer - and now it's forming new buds! Should I keep it in its 30 cm pot? Leave it outside? Bring it in again? I realise it won't flower again for Christmas but would love it to do so at some time......


Posts

  • Guernsey Donkey2Guernsey Donkey2 Posts: 6,713
    I have three in the same position, not knowing whether to repot - plant in the garden or leave as they are in their pots.  I did prune them all three acers after flowering earlier in the year and they have grown healthy new shoots which are just beginning to bud up.  I wouldn't disturb it now Berkley, but wait until the acer has flowered - it would be a shame to lose next season's buds by giving the plant a shock now.  I will be interested to read what those who have more gardening experience recommend that you do.
  • ButtercupdaysButtercupdays Posts: 4,546
    edited September 2018
    The ones that are grown as pot plants around Christmas are usually Azalea indica, which is not hardy. While they enjoy summers outside, they need to be brought back inside before any risk of frost. They are quite happy as houseplants as long as you avoid too much direct sun and keep them well watered - watch out for the first signs of wilting on petals or leaves. I kept one going for years, repotting every year and it eventually got quite big.
  • Guernsey Donkey2Guernsey Donkey2 Posts: 6,713
    Mine don't have labels, and I don't know which variety they are Buttercupdays.  I do know that they have flowered successfully outside for one season, so I am assuming they are a hardier variety than Azalea indica. I know there are plenty of "Christmas" plants that are not hardy enough for outdoors - a rose plant I was given a couple of years ago died a slow death once I had put it in the front border.  Do you know which variety of Azalea your plant is Berkley?
  • ButtercupdaysButtercupdays Posts: 4,546
    edited September 2018
    It could be one of the Japonica ones then, that are evergreen and that generally stay ralatively small,  but can be smothered in flowers :)
    I have a couple of those and they are hardy even here!
  • BerkleyBerkley Posts: 431

    Buttercupdays: I was given the azalea as a present - and unfortunately there was no label - but I am posting a photo for your interest. Thank you for your comments.


  • ObelixxObelixx Posts: 30,090
    Have a look at the bottom of the pot.  If you can see roots peeping out then it needs to be re-potted but only to the next size up and with ericaceous compost.  If you're unsure about hardiness, move it to a light, cool room rather than risk it outdoors in a surprise frost.
    Vendée - 20kms from Atlantic coast.
    "The price good men (and women) pay for indifference to public affairs is to be ruled by evil men (and women)."
    Plato
  • Guernsey Donkey2Guernsey Donkey2 Posts: 6,713
    If you do put this lovely plant outside, do be careful of strong winds, where it could topple over or burn.  It should be in a sheltered, sunny spot - but I think Obelixx suggestion of a cool room (with some natural light) could be the answer.
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