How to nurse azaleas back to health

Garden and greenhouse enthusiasts have been given some tips on how to nurse azaleas back to health.

One concerned enthusiast wrote to the Commercial Appeal and asked for advice on whether to cut back the stems of weather damaged plants that had begun to show signs of new growth.

The newspaper suggested that pruning should be carried out as soon as the azaleas stop blooming and should never be done after June.

To get the best out of the variety, growers should ensure that their soil is slightly acidic, with a pH of around 5.25.

However, since they are shallow rooted, they are susceptible to damage from excess water in the soil and gardeners should take care not to cause themselves problems in this way.

Planting azaleas in a cool, shady location should given them the best chance of success and growers should not be concerned if a few leaves turn yellow or drop off at this time of year.

Meanwhile, philly.com has looked at the joys of growing in a rock garden.