When you purchase your plants, check their condition. Azaleas are one of the most beautiful shrubs of all garden plants and grow, flower and thrive in pots for over 100 years. Most azaleas are happiest in a spot that receives morning sun and afternoon shade, in moist, organic rich well-drained soil that is on the acidic side. Pot some Azaleas Rhododendrons, or Azaleas as they are referred to here in South Africa, are amongst the most beautiful of all flowering trees and shrubs. Your soil should have a pH level of 5.5 or to 6.0.

The best size is the one that fits the needs of the gardener's space. If this occurs, a soil test is suggested for exact recommendations on adding a soil amendment to the soil in order to adjust the pH. Alazlea pots traditionally come in 4-, 6-, 8- and 20-inch (in height) sizes.

Unfortunately, they require specialised growing conditions in order to thrive, and many parts of the country are not ideally suited to growing Azaleas in the garden.

Azaleas are ericaceous plants, which means they thrive in acidic soil with a pH between 5.0 and 6.0. Avoid planting azaleas too deep.

The smaller the pot, the smaller the azalea will grow. How to Get Acidic Soil for Azaleas. There are a variety of sizes, bloom times, petal shapes and colours available. Azaleas also need well-aerated, well-draining soil to make sure roots get plenty of oxygen and never sit in soggy ground. Give them a generous mulch, between two and four inches deep, each spring to keep the soil moist and the roots cool.

Plant your shrub in the right soil.

You should also avoid heavy clay when planting azaleas, as clay will choke the roots.

The best soil for azaleas in pots is a combination of organic materials. How to Pot an Azalea.

Adding organic matter, such as compost, to your soil at planting helps.

Azaleas growing in pots appreciate a moist but well-drained soil. Re-pot every 2 years if growing in a container as the soil can become compacted and waterlogged. Of course the azalea needs to be pruned in order to keep it healthy and at a size manageable for the pot. Azaleas thrive in fertile acidic soil and they are easy to look after once they are established. If the leaves turn yellow between green veins then you most likely have a pH problem. Ask if they can show you the roots of the plant by removing the plant from the pot so you can inspect the roots.

Azaleas may be deciduous (drop their leaves in autumn/winter) or evergreen.

Constantly soggy or wet soil can and often will cause root rot or other harmful plant diseases. Acidity: Rhododendrons and azaleas prefer acidic soils having a pH between 4.5 to 6.0. It would be easier growing Azaleas in pots if you buy transplants instead from your local nursery or garden store. Fill the pot with potting soil labeled for use with azaleas, as the plants thrive best in acidic soil. Azaleas also grow very well in a pot, where they can brighten up a balcony, patio or deck.