Interesting Notes:

Developed in Stewartstown, PA by Joseph Gable for its cold hardness and later flowering time.  Mr. Michael Dirr list this Azalea as Stewartstown in his 'Manual of Woody Landscape Plants'.

Azalea Growing and Maintenance Tips

Planting: Azaleas prefer partial shade or dappled sun with well-drained, acidic soil. Avoid planting in hot, dry locations with direct afternoon sun or reflected sunlight.  For a formal sheared hedge planting 2 to 3 feet apart is recommended. When a natural hedge is prefered space 3 to 4 feet apart. Click on the "About Us" tab to find planting instructions.

Watering: Avoid over or under watering

Fertilizing: In the spring after the last frost, fertilize with a well-balanced, slow-release fertilizer for acid loving plants.

Pruning: After the flowers finish blooming, you can remove the dead flowers and seed heads and trim the plant.  Avoid trimming after July 1 because it will remove flower buds that would bloom the folowing season. Trimming anywhere along the stem can encourage new growth.

Azalea 'Stewartstonian' Characteristics

Genus Overview: Azalea

Common Name: Azalea

The Azalea is among the showiest of all shrubs when in flower. Being evergreen to semi-evergreen it gives your garden a well finished appearance even in winter. The azalea is a member of the rhododendron family and requires basically the same care as the rhododendron. They begin blooming from mid-March to early May and are prized for their vibrant colors and fine textured foliage. Azaleas can be planted in full sun or partial shade; however, it is best not to plant them where temperatures get too hot. This versatile shrub can be used in many aspects of the landscape. All require slightly acid loamy soil with adequate drainage. When planting be sure to plant 1/2” above the ground level, amend the soil only when necessary and mulched to help retain water and insure their survival. Growth habit varies from 2’ to 8’ with equal spread depending on the variety.