Azalea Watering

Question

Do azaleas have to be watered with lime free water? Recently purchased an azalea, repotted the plant and watered with tap water. Plant flowered beautifully but recently getting brown edging to some of leaves, which then go on to die. If I don’t water, the plant wilts. Currently enlarged pot stands in a washing up bowl, so I can give roots a really good soak; but is it critical for water supply to be lime free?

Answer 1

Regular tap water should not hurt the plant, though distilled water or rainwater is often preferable. I am hoping the container you have it sitting in is providing enough drainage. Otherwise, you will eventually rot out the roots. The browning of leaves could result from either too much or too little watering. This article has more information: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/environmental/what-causes-brown-edges-on-leaves-of-plant.htm