About azaleas

Question

This was a cold winter and the deer ate every bud and leaf of my azalea bushes. It now looks like sticks popping out of the ground. They look dead. Is there help for them or should I replace them and protect them this winter?

Thanks Janice Latta

Answer 1

First question -- are your azaleas still alive? If the branches bend without breaking, or if there is green underneath when you scrape away some bark, the bush is still alive. If it's alive, it should regrow.
Next question -- if they're dead, what to replace them with? Even if they're not dead, you might still want to replace them, or take steps to discourage deer. This article has some suggestions: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/deer/deer-repellents.htm