dead and dying azalea - Ask Extension
Is it safe to put dead and dying azalea in the yard trash bin? i've lost 6 bushes so far and another is in trouble. I know they need to come out....
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dead and dying azalea #734438
Asked November 24, 2020, 1:57 PM EST
Is it safe to put dead and dying azalea in the yard trash bin? i've lost 6 bushes so far and another is in trouble. I know they need to come out.
Is there any word yet on how to stop it? When I trim out the dead branches or take them out completely can I safely plant new ones in their place in the spring?
How sad!
Penny Cook
Is there any word yet on how to stop it? When I trim out the dead branches or take them out completely can I safely plant new ones in their place in the spring?
How sad!
Penny Cook
Benton County Oregon
Expert Response
Sorry to hear you are having problems with your azaleas. To answer your first question: Yes, you can throw it in the trash. You could also put it in a commercial compost bin - because these will be processed with a high-temperature method that kills most diseases.
There are several directions you could go to determine the problem and determine if you can plant new ones in the same location.
The first hint is that you have lost six bushes. So the problem will most probably continue in any new plantings. So here are questions to ask yourself as you determine what to plant in this area.
Is it the environment (too much/little sun, moisture, competition from the roots of surrounding plants, etc.) or the soil (too much/little acid, diseases in the soil, moles eating roots...) or insects or plant diseases?
I have had all these issues with a row of azaleas that I planted, so I know your pain!
Attached below are lists of what to look for, possible diseases or pests, and best environment for growing azaleas.
I hope this helps you to make a good decision regarding what to plant in this area next spring.
