Azalea Shrub and Its Flowers
Bill McRea
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Though belonging to the same class of shrubs, an azalea shrub can be distinguished from rhododendrons, at least in the casual sense. The former refers to smaller varieties, around 12 to 24 inches tall that serve a particularly ornamental function, considering their lushly colored leaves and vibrant blooms. The latter refers to the larger varieties, better used in gardens for hedging smaller plants and lining up manmade structures.
Nonetheless, it is not totally wrong to group an azalea shrub and a rhododendron together, at least in a scientific discussion. Both plants belong to the same botanical family of shrubs.
Azaleas are highly prized shrubs because of their amazing and abundant flowers. A favorite of cross breeders from all around the world, there are many, many kinds of azaleas, and newer ones are being created daily. Hence, what were originally carnation-colored flowers associated with azaleas have now branched out to a wide variety of hues, ranging from vibrant orange, and red, to pink, to violet, and even to blue.
Azalea shrubs are likewise a favorite crop for horticulturists come spring, mainly because the timing of the blooms for the Valentines. Azalea flowers are growing in popularity as a gift of love. A fact that is not lost from the countless florists around the world.
It is important to remember that an azalea sapling should be planted during winter. Planting, or transplanting as the case may be, is different from blooming. Azalea flowers can easily freeze during the colder months, and their petals damaged. Florists, horticulturists and casual gardeners would not be able to realize the full potentials of the blossoms if this was the case.
Azaleas demand acidic soils with a pH level of at least 5.5. This can be difficult to maintain in warmer territories. The best way to achieve such acidity is to apply fertilizer to the soil in a continuous manner, and in some instances, to resort to mulching in able to retain water in the same.
An azalea shrub is a hedge plant. It prefers enclosed areas to protect itself from environmental factors like the cold or the wind. Azaleas require a fair amount of sunlight, though some shade will help for this specie. In general, azaleas are hardy, though their blooms require a lot of care.
Bill McRea is the publisher of over 100 information related websites. Premeir sites include kansasfans.com, guitarwarehouse.com, 24hour-info.com and knowninfo.com. Bill has published over 300 articles covering dozens of topics.
Azalea Shrub
Boxwood Shrub
Evergreen Shrub
Hedge Shrub
Holly Shrub
Landscaping Shrub
Lilac Shrub
Rose Shrub
Shade Shrub
Shrub Tree
Boxwood Shrub News
| Propagation From Cuttings (BellaOnline) Sun, 17 Aug 2008 03:33:08 GMT Propagation from cuttings is an excellent way to increase your garden, to winter over delicate perennials, or grow your own living gifts for giving over the holidays. Cutting propagation is simple to do with many plants. Here are the tips you need to start your own mini-nursery! | ||
| Where beauty and whimsy reign (The Cincinnati Enquirer) Sat, 16 Aug 2008 09:49:40 GMT Visit Aikenside in Kennedy Heights, where you'll find Boston ivy and a gnome swinging from a tree. It's a place where you feel that all of the yards are above average. | ||
| Cool shady East Brainerd retreat (Chattanooga Times Free Press) Sat, 16 Aug 2008 04:07:18 GMT The indoor/outdoor feel of retired interior designer Karen Fullam’s East Brainerd garden was inspired by a favorite Blue Ridge Mountains retreat. |
