My Azalea Buds Won't Flower

Azalea shrubs are popular nationwide, although they thrive particularly in the East and South. Their ability to flower depends on their health, which is affected by local climate, proper location for sufficient sunlight, shallow planting in loamy soil to increase oxygen flow to roots, soil that is moist but not too wet and acidic soil loosened with organic matter and control. Healthy azaleas attract less garden pests. However, even if a shrub is healthy, it won't produce many blossoms if it is pruned at the wrong time.

• 1

  Buy azaleas from local growers to ensure choosing plants that are sufficiently hardy for colder area climates. Temperatures that are too cold can result in frozen flower buds. Be aware that some types of azaleas, particularly ones from florists, don't tolerate freezing temperatures. Be aware that location in the yard is also important. Determine the best spot in which to plant the shrubs based on a combination of sun and shade. The Danny Lipford home improvement website recommends settings with "dappled sunlight," which consists of morning sunlight and afternoon shade.

• 2

  Test soil to ensure the acidic pH of between 5 and 6.5 that azaleas need. A higher number indicates an alkaline, limestone soil. To increase acidity, amend the soil with natural, acidic materials, such as pine needles, oak leaves and coffee grounds. One good solution to increase acidity is to build a raised bed about 15 inches deep for the amended soil. Avoid placing the bed next to a foundation such as concrete, which contains lime.

• 3

  Replant azalea shrubs if necessary to make sure their roots are shallow enough to gain plenty of oxygen. The roots of evergreen azaleas should extend no more than 12 inches below the soil line, whereas deciduous varieties may go deeper. According to the Azalea Society of America, loamy soil is best, because it contains particles of many sizes. This leaves gaps for the flow of oxygen.

• 4

  Amend clay or sandy soils to make them more loamy. Remember that azaleas like moist soil, but suffer if their roots sit in water. Test for drainage as suggested by the Azalea Society of North America. Dig a hole in the soil and fill it with water. See if it empties in a few hours.

• 5

  Remember that pruning encourages branches to spread and blossom. Trim azaleas in May or June soon after the shrubs flower, because they set buds for next year's blooms in July. Although lovely, azaleas are tough. It's okay to prune them with hedge clippers, according to the website Creative Homemaking, but use fingers to pinch back the bud end when establishing cuttings or growing seedlings.