The Conversation Piece Azalea (Rhododendron x Robin Hill 'Conversation Piece') is a gorgeous, decorative shrub prized for its ability to re-bloom several times from spring into the fall season. The colors range from pink, white, red and have been known to all be present on the shrub and really pop against the glossy green foliage. Maturing to a low height and width of 2-3 feet, this compact plant will be great for small areas in need of a touch of color. The conversation piece azalea will benefit from a full to partial sun exposure in USDA growing zones 6-9, so it can take some cold (down to 0 degrees once established) as well as some heat for southern states as well. Due to its small stature at maturity the azalea can also be successfully container grown if located in a colder growing zone. The azalea has a fairly moderate growth rate and requires little to no maintenance to flourish.

Choosing a Location: Azaleas can thrive in full to partial sun. In cooler environments they can take up to 8 hours of direct light. In warmer climates they will need protection from the hot sun, but still need 6 hours of filtered light to bloom properly. Azaleas prefer an acidic, well draining, moist soil. They perform best with a soil pH of 5.5 to 6.5 and you can purchase a test kit at any garden center to verify the acidity of the soil. If your soil is not well draining you can amend it with compost or planting mix which will also help to lower the pH.

Planting directions (in ground): Azaleas are compact shrubs and need to be spaced about 2 feet to form a hedge, can be used as a centerpiece or a stand alone shrub.

1) Dig a hole three times as wide and just as deep as the root ball.
2) Remove the plant from the container and loosen the roots with your fingers so that they spread out once planted.
3) Backfill the hole with a mixture of your native soil (60%) and compost or garden soil, you can include some coffee grounds while planting to help lower the pH if needed (always test the pH before adding anything to adjust).
4) Water lightly as you backfill to remove air pockets and water well when done but do not saturate the soil.
5) Mulch the area with 2-3 inches of mulch to help the plant conserve water and to protect the roots from fluctuating temperatures.

Planting directions (potted): Since these are compact shrubs, they can be kept in a large container as a patio plant. Move the plant gradually into a large container by repotting every year or so into a slightly larger container.

1) Use an acidic soil to fill the bottom of a container that is 1-2 sizes larger than the container that the plant initially arrived in.
2) Remove the plant from the original container and place it in the center of the new container.
3) Water the plant thoroughly until the water drains through the bottom, allow the soil to dry several inches down before watering again.
4) Place the plant in an area where it gets 4-6 hours of sun, protecting it from hot afternoon sun in warmer climates.

Watering (in ground): During the first year, your Azalea will need ample water to get established. During the cooler times of year you will only need to water twice a week. Thoroughly water the area, making sure that the roots are not sitting in water, as that can lead to root rot. During the hotter times of the year they will need watered every other day, depending on the weather. Do not allow the roots to be saturated for extended periods of time. Allow the water to seep deeply into the soil to ensure that all of the roots receive water. Azaleas are not considered to be drought tolerant, so during times of drought or excessive heat you will need to water even established plants.

(In container): Water your plant thoroughly until water runs through the drainage holes. Allow the soil to dry to a depth of about 2-3 inches down before watering the plant again. Test the soil by sticking your finger in the soil to test for moisture. If the soil feels damp, wait another couple of days and recheck before watering.

Fertilizing: Azaleas need food in order to bloom for extended periods of time. Fertilize them with a slow release fertilizer intended for azaleas. For best results, fertilize in the early spring but be sure to read and follow label instructions as the application will vary by manufacturer. Do not over fertilize as that can lead to unnecessary stress for the plant.

Pruning: Azaleas need very little pruning, if you need to prune the plant for shape do so immediately after the plant has finished its spring flowering. Pruning too late in the season will inhibit future blooms. Once plants are well established, a light annual pruning can be done to stimulate growth.