Do azaleas need ericaceous compost? Changing the pH of the soil.
When thinking of stunning flowering plants, azalea must be one of the plantlets that will cross your mind immediately. Rhododendron by their scientific name, are one of the most challenging plants to grow and maintain, however, their gorgeous and elegant looks are worth every single struggle.
Due to their high maintenance, most sources are categorising this plantlet as being one for advanced plant carers. If not cared for properly, this plantlet will not survive a second growing season.
This article will further discuss the actuality behind the need azaleas have for ericaceous compost. However, first thing first, we shall have a look into what the term “ericaceous compost” stands for.
By definition, “ericaceous compost” is compost that is very low in pH, acidic soil, perfectly fitted for plants that are known as acid lovers, aka lime-hating. This kind of plant will not grow properly in mixes of soil that contain a high pH, also known as alkaline soils.
Therefore, given the fact that we have gotten a better understanding of the term “ericaceous compost”, we shall go further with our question, do azaleas need ericaceous compost?
So, do azaleas need ericaceous compost?
To answer the question early in the article, yes, azalea plantlets do need ericaceous compost! Azaleas are flowering plants that are also categorized as lime-hating, in other words, plantlets that love acidic soils. As mentioned earlier, this plant is difficult to grow, and the pH of the soil hosting the azalea is one of the criteria that have to adhere to, for your plant to develop properly and thrive.
All species of azalea enjoy moist and acidic soils the best, that is the reason for the high importance to achieve a humus-rich type of soil. As a side note, as every other plant does, azaleas also require a good mix of soil for best drainage, and if planted indoors, a pot with drain holes to avoid any risks of overwatering, which would ultimately result in mold.
If you are unsure in regards to the acidity of the soil you can always measure its pH with a test kit. This way, you will certainly know if the pH of the soil is a problem for the azalea plantlet.
In case the pH is higher than neutral, it is going to be an issue because azaleas do not do great in alkaline soils. However, you do not have to worry too much, acid can be added.
The pH can be easily lowered by adding chemicals that are usually easy to find, such as garden sulfur, ferrous or ammonium sulfates. And if for some reason, you are unable to find them, or simply do not want to use chemicals, there are more natural ways to raise the acidity of the soil mix. A compost made of pine needles, oak leaf mold, pine bark or peat will do the trick just as well as the chemicals.
