Azaleas grow happily in pots of ericaceous compost, so you can enjoy these plants even without acid garden soil. They come in a wide range of colours, from deep red and pink to orange, yellow or pure white. Some even have a wonderful, spicy scent that will perfume your patio on a warm day.
Plant it:
October - November or February - March
At its best:
March - May
Takes just:
30 minutes
-
Put a layer of crocks in the bottom of the container, then fill it two-thirds with ericaceous compost.
-
Plant the campanulas around the edge of the container where they'll tumble over the sides. Plant the azalea in the centre. Top up with compost, firming around the plant.
-
After the azalea has stopped flowering the campanulas will keep going well into summer - they'll overwinter happily in their container. Cut them back if they begin to look messy.
"Azaleas hate being dry, so water them even when they're not flowering - they prefer rainwater to tap water. Give them a regular boost with ericaceous plant food. "
"Some azaleas are deciduous and lose their leaves in autumn, so make sure you choose an evergreen variety for year-round interest. "
Today 






