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What are the reasons why Western azaleas are hard to keep alive

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When it comes to "azaleas," flower lovers are probably all familiar with them, right? There are a great many species, over nine hundred in total, with Asia accounting for roughly eight hundred of them. Among them, the "Western azalea" counts as the standout. It has gorgeous colors and a beautiful, graceful form. With these qualities, it is used very widely in landscaping and is suitable for planting in many spots such as among trees, beside streams, and next to rocks. However, some people also say it is very hard to grow. Why is that?

1. Reasons it is hard to grow

Saying it is hard to keep alive is, of course, because of its habits; its requirements for many factors are rather strict.

First is temperature. It requires 15 to 25 degrees; it cannot exceed 30 degrees when high, and low is no good either, as below 5 degrees it will stop growing.

Next is water, which is likewise rather strict. It prefers moisture, and the soil must not be left dry for long periods; but it also fears waterlogging, so soil that is too wet is no good either.

Then there is light. It does not particularly like light, but without light it also cannot do, and scorching sun is even worse.

Finally there is the potting soil. Because its roots are rather fine, it also has some requirements for the soil quality.

2. How to grow it better

(1) Temperature: the suitable temperature range has already been mentioned above. So growers in regions that are too hot in summer or too cold in winter need to pay attention, and at that time take cooling or cold-protection measures according to the specific situation, so as not to let the plant suffer damage.

(2) Water: generally speaking, the potting soil needs to be kept in a relatively moist condition. To achieve this, during its faster growth stage, you can check once a day; if the potting soil is dry, water it, and if it is fairly moist, you can hold off watering for the time being.

(3) Light: given its requirements, indirect light is of course the most suitable. For this reason, placing it in places such as a balcony or windowsill is fine. If there is occasionally light that is too strong, remember to shade it a little.

(4) Soil quality: considering its root system, the potting soil must be loose and breathable. Also, drainage needs to be considered. So we can mix leaf mold, peat soil, and perlite together to grow it.

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