Should I Cover My Azalea For Winter?

Question

I live in Michigan with pretty harsh winters and have been babying my azalea for the last 15 years by covering it up for the winter. This is getting more difficult for me to do as I am elderly and I wonder if it is really necessary. The azalea is next to a brick patio and about 2 feet high and 3 feet in width. I’m afraid of losing it to winter ice and winds if I don’t cover it.

Answer 1

It depends on the azalea you have. If you have any of the Northern Lights series, it should be OK in your zone 6 weather, if mulched well. If you don't know what kind of azalea it is, I would continue to cover it. Many are susceptible to winter damage, especially below 25 degrees F.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/azalea/winter-protection-for-azaleas.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/gardening-by-zone/zone-5/zone-5-azalea-shrubs.htm