For spring 2013, 22 of 32 Encore™ Azalea varieties are cold hardy in the Southern Appalachian region (USDA hardiness zones 6 and 7). Thirteen (13) varieties are reliably cold hardy throughout Zone 6-a&b. They are: Autumn Amethyst, Autumn Carnation, Autumn Cheer, Autumn Jewel , Autumn Lilac, Autumn Lily, Autumn Royalty, Autumn Ruby, Autumn Sangria, Autumn Sunburst, Autumn Sundance, Autumn Sunset, and Autumn Twist.

Nine (9) additional varieties are rated as cold hardy in zone 6-b: Autumn Bravo, Autumn Carnival, Autumn Debutante, Autumn Embers, Autumn Empress, Autumn Monarch, Autumn Princess, Autumn Rouge, and Autumn Sweetheart.

Selecting the proper garden site is most important. Encore Azaleas are tolerant to full day sun exposure in zones 6 and 7. On the shady side, Encore Azaleas do need 4 to 6 hours minimum of sunlight daily for repeat bloom in the autumn. The soil should be acidic and compost rich. Optimum soil pH should range between 5.5 and 6.5. Good soil drainage is an absolute must! Following a heavy rain, if water is still standing 12 hours later, growing them in a raised bed is advised.

Irrigation during summer dry and excessive heat periods is highly recommended. Fertilize with an 8-9 month rated slow-release fertilizer from late winter to mid-spring. An alternative is to feed azaleas with water-soluble fertilizers (Miracle-Gro™, Jack’s™, Schultz™, or other brands) bi-weekly. Do not feed azaleas after mid-August.

Container-grown plants may be added to a garden from late winter to early fall. Dig a hole 6-8 inches deep and twice as wide as the nursery container. Fill with compost rich soil in the hole and spread 2-3 inches of pine bark or needles around each azalea. Slowly pour 3-5 gallons of water into the planting hole.