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David E. Ross · 25-02-2009, 04:02 AM posted to rec.gardens

On 2/24/2009 5:11 PM, wrote [in part]:

You might want to hold off on the fertilizer immediately upon
transplanting. The azalias have enough work adjusting to their new
environment without extra stimulation.

I say wait about two weeks.

Actually, azaleas do not need much fertilizer. They prefer a "lean"
soil. With a soil containing compost, they likely have enough nutrients
for an entire growing season. Wait a whole year.

On the other hand, they do need an acidic soil. If your soil is
alkaline, stir a small amount of soil sulfur into the soil. Natural
soil bacteria will slowly convert it into sulfuric acid.

--
David E. Ross
Climate: California Mediterranean
Sunset Zone: 21 -- interior Santa Monica Mountains with some ocean
influence (USDA 10a, very close to Sunset Zone 19)
Gardening diary at http://www.rossde.com/garden/diary