Azalea care: watering, light and repotting
Also called indoor azalea, indian azalea · Rhododendron simsii · Ericaceae family
3 d in winter
How often to water the azalea?
Allow about 3 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 3 days in autumn and winter, when growth slows down. These rhythms apply to a room with its favourite light: in a darker room the plant drinks less; in a brighter one, it drinks more.
Root ball always moist, soft water, cool room (54–64 °F, 12–18 °C). The safest way: soak the pot for 10 minutes twice a week.
Misting every 3 days helps keep the air humid around its leaves, especially in winter when central heating dries the house out.
What light does it need?
The azalea likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Repotting and fertiliser
Repot every 2 years, ideally in May, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. As for fertiliser, from April to August, feeding every 3 weeks is enough; the rest of the year, let it rest.
Adult size: 1–1.5 ft (30–50 cm).
Toxic to pets and children. Keep this plant out of reach and, if it is eaten, contact a vet or a poison control centre.
Common problems
Flowers and leaves dropping
Cause: Dry root ball or room too warm. What to do: Soak the pot and move it somewhere cool.
Yellowing leaves
Cause: Hard water. What to do: Water with rainwater.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the azalea?
About every 3 days in spring and summer, and every 3 days in autumn and winter, in a room with its favourite light. The darker the room, the longer you wait between waterings. Before watering, check that the top inch of soil has dried.
Where should you put the azalea?
The azalea likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Should you mist the azalea?
Yes, misting every 3 days does it good, especially in winter when heating dries the air. Use soft, room-temperature water.
When should you repot the azalea?
Every 2 years, ideally in May, or sooner if roots come out of the drainage hole. Choose a pot only slightly bigger, 1 to 1.5 in (2 to 4 cm) wider, always with a hole in the bottom.
Cats, dogs, children: is the azalea safe?
The azalea is toxic to pets and to children if eaten. Keep the plant out of reach and, if it's eaten, call a vet or a poison control centre.
Is it an easy plant to care for?
Rather for experienced growers: it's demanding about watering, light or humidity. Some experience helps.
These are guidelines for an indoor plant in a temperate climate. Trust the soil too: a finger pushed an inch into it will tell you whether it's thirsty.