How to Water Soil for Azaleas

Azaleas are elegant flowering shrubs, growing mostly in the southeast, typically Georgia and Florida. They come in a variety of colors such as pink, white and red, depending on the cultivar. Because their roots are shallow and can be damaged by water logging, according to the United States National Arboretum, watering the soil correctly will prevent the death of the plant. Before planting the azalea, make sure the area is well-drained, avoiding places in your landscape that will puddle water after rainfall, such as the bottom of a slope. Plant in a raised bed for good drainage.

• 1

  Apply around the azaleas a 2- to 4-inch layer of mulch, such as pine straw, leaving 1 inch unmulched around the stem after planting the azalea. This will help keep the soil moist and ward off any weeds.

• 2

  Water the newly planted azalea slowly and deeply. Do the same on the day following planting. Afterward, water the azalea once a week for several weeks to establish the roots and settle the soil, according to the Azalea Society of America. Water the azalea deeply when the leaves are wilting.

• 3

  Check the soil moisture once a week during the summer months. If it is dry, water with 6 gallons of water over 10 square feet of soil, recommends the University of Georgia Extension. This should be enough to soak the soil to 8 to 12 inches deep. Use drip irrigation or a soaker hose to water slowly, without flooding the soil.