Encore® Azaleas are renowned for their reliability in bringing vibrant color to the landscape throughout the year, brightening even the dullest winter days with their radiant evergreen foliage that shines in December, January, and February. A few simple steps during the colder winter months will set you up for a barrage of beautiful blooms once spring arrives, making winter watering well worthwhile!
In winter, reduced rainfall often leaves the soil drier than usual, making it difficult for plants to access the moisture they need. Even when the ground is frozen, plant roots remain active and require water to survive. Without adequate moisture, prolonged dry periods can cause drought stress, negatively impacting the health of azaleas and potentially reducing their future blooms. Ensuring proper watering during winter helps plants stay resilient and prepared for the growing season ahead.
How to winter water:
Signs of Winter Watering Problems:
Different factors influence the watering needs of azaleas, including variety, location, and climate. Intermediate-sized Encore® Azaleas, such as Autumn Moonstruck™ or Autumn Bravo®, may require slightly different watering than dwarf varieties like Autumn Angel® or Autumn Ivory®. Additionally, azaleas planted in sheltered locations often need less frequent watering compared to those exposed to harsh winds and direct sunlight. Since winter weather conditions vary greatly, it’s important to adjust your watering schedule based on temperature, snowfall, and rainfall to ensure your plants receive adequate moisture.
Showing your Encore® Azaleas a little love in winter will reward you with a spectacular spring show! Whether dealing with dry spells, fluctuating temperatures, or frozen soil, staying proactive with watering and mulching will help protect your Encores from seasonal stress. A little attention during the colder months will go a long way in preserving their vibrant color and lush foliage year-round.
How to winter water:
- Check Soil Moisture: Gently push your finger about 2-3 inches into the soil. If it feels dry, it's time to water. Avoid overwatering, as soggy soil can lead to root rot. In general, Encore® Azaleas will need watering every 7 - 10 days when temperatures are above freezing and rain is scarce.
- Deep Watering: When you do water, do so deeply and thoroughly. This encourages a more resilient root system essential for winter survival and is especially important before a freeze.
- Water on Warmer Days: Choose warmer days for watering. Avoid watering when the temperatures are below 40 degrees F.
- Mulching: Adding a 4” layer of pine straw or bark around the base of the shrub helps retain moisture and insulate the roots.
Signs of Winter Watering Problems:
- Wilting: Even in winter, wilting can indicate insufficient water.
- Leaf Drop: Excessive leaf drop can indicate both drought stress and overwatering.
- Reduced Springtime Blooms: Reduced or lack of blooms in subsequent seasons could result from winter water stress.
Different factors influence the watering needs of azaleas, including variety, location, and climate. Intermediate-sized Encore® Azaleas, such as Autumn Moonstruck™ or Autumn Bravo®, may require slightly different watering than dwarf varieties like Autumn Angel® or Autumn Ivory®. Additionally, azaleas planted in sheltered locations often need less frequent watering compared to those exposed to harsh winds and direct sunlight. Since winter weather conditions vary greatly, it’s important to adjust your watering schedule based on temperature, snowfall, and rainfall to ensure your plants receive adequate moisture.
Showing your Encore® Azaleas a little love in winter will reward you with a spectacular spring show! Whether dealing with dry spells, fluctuating temperatures, or frozen soil, staying proactive with watering and mulching will help protect your Encores from seasonal stress. A little attention during the colder months will go a long way in preserving their vibrant color and lush foliage year-round. 
