will azeleas grow in sandy soil? do i need them in a raised bed?

Answer 1

Azaleas like acidic soil, rich in nutrients, and some shade. The sandy soil is not the best bet, so it would be a good idea to make a raised bed, or amend the soil in the area you plan to plant. Use fertilizer made for Rhododendrons/Azaleas/Blueberries, etc. You can also save your coffee grounds and left over coffee and sprinkle it around the base...it will help acidify the soil. Pine needles, shredded oak leaves, pine bark all make good mulch for the azaleas. Remember not to plant them too deep...they have a shallow root system. Good luck!

Answer 2

if the soil is sandy there is not a lot of nutrients found in the soil, azeleas need a fair amount of these nutrients. Add to the soil rotted cow manure a good quality compost and a layer of mulch, this will keep in the water and nutrients, this will raise the bed some what giving good drainage.

Answer 3

You don't have to put them in a raised bed. However, I would dig the sand out around where you want to put them, and mix in topsoil, mulch, etc. in and around the area. Plant them to the same depth as the pot they are in, water good for about 2-4 weeks, and then feed them with an all purpose food, such as Miracle Gro. Around March next year, get a good blooming fertilizer and start feeding them well. They should bloom for you in the spring.

Answer 4

We all have our preferences, I grow them in 100% peat moss. Here is a source for info to help you http://www.azaleas.org/