Now is the time to begin your lawn care program. Apply Scotts 4-Step Step 1 Fertilizer with Crabgrass Preventer now.

Among the first signs of spring are the brightly colored blooms of azaleas and rhododendrons. Native to Southeast Asia and North America, these great evergreen shrubs definitely have a place in Midwestern landscapes. There are many varieties to choose from; what that means to a gardener is a wide choice of flower color from spring lavenders and rosy pinks to tropical yellow and orange; and flower style—frilly and ruffled or simple and elegant. There is also a range in bloom times, bloom sizes, plant size and growth habit (which can be from 2-3 feet with dense small foliage or 6-8 feet with an open, lacy growth habit). With a comprehensive selection, your shady garden could have azaleas blooming from late winter into late spring.

Azaleas love acid soil, good amendments and fertilizers. When planting your azaleas, be sure to mix the native soil of your garden with an azalea (acid) planting amendment or with 40% peat moss and 40% pine bark mulch. Good drainage is critical for survival but they do not like their roots to stay too wet or too dry. Plant them so that the root crown is 1-3 inches above the soil line. Select a site that is protected from strong afternoon sun and north winter wind. An eastern facing site close to the house with filtered light is ideal. Once planted, mulch, mulch, mulch.

Great Rhododendrons and Azaleas for the Quad Cities

Rhododendron P.J.M. Rhododendron P.J.M. Compact Rhododendron ‘Purple Passion’ Azalea ‘Mandarin Lights’ Azalea ‘Karen’s’

Azalea ‘Lemon Lights’ Azalea ‘Northern Lights’ Azalea ‘Orchid Lights’ Azalea ‘Poukhanense’ Rhodendron ‘Northern Starburst’