Q: One of the eight azaleas I planted two years ago has had to be replaced twice. Why might I be having trouble with this one bush? 

A: Whenever plants die in one spot, I immediately suspect the soil is too soggy. Dig up the problematic azalea after a rain and check the soil. It should not be soggy a day after rainfall. Another idea for when you plant another azalea this fall: try to wash as much of the planting media off of the roots as you possibly can. Untangle and spread the roots out flat so they extend horizontally under the shrub.

Tags For This Article: Azaleas, Bush, shrub, Soggy Soil