Can azaleas be left in the garden over the winter? Should they be covered? Our winter temperatures here in Southwestern Ontario are usually about -5 degrees Celsius, but can be as cold as -15 degrees Celsius.
Most Azaleas are cold hardy down to zone 5 and 6.
There are a few varieties that are rated for zone 4.
If temperatures drop below 25 degrees F that plants will need protection.
You may not be able to winter over Azaleas in your area.
Here is a link with more information.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/azalea/winter-protection-for-azaleas.htm
How and when to prune?
Best time to prune is right after they have bloomed.
Also just prior to blooming you can clean up any broken or damaged stems.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/azalea/pruning-azaleas.htm
I have just been given an Azalea and would like to know if this can be planted in the garden in the spring, or is it just an indoor plant? Are there different types hardy and non hardy? Mrs EG Rumble
It can be difficult sometimes to tell the type of Azalea that was sold.
Given the time of year, it is likely that your Azalea was grown and sold as an indoor specimen.
Here are some links to help you.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/azalea/growing-azalea-houseplants.htm
Can you leave the plant out all year? I live in Idaho.
This will depend on the variety.
Most Azalea are hardy in zones 6-9, though there are some cultivators that are hardy down to zone 4.
Here is a link with more information on winter care.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/azalea/winter-protection-for-azaleas.htm
Can I use dormant oil on azaleas in bloom without hurting the flowers?
No, it would not be recommend for use on the plant while blooming.
Here are some links that will help you and give you other options for pest and disease control.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/azalea/common-azalea-problems.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/fegen/dormant-oil-information.htm
Can these be grown from a transplant?
Yes, you can propagate from cuttings.
Here is a link with more information.
http://www.clemson.edu/extension/hgic/hot_topics/2008/06propagation.html
I dug up some azaleas from another yard and planted in my yard. There are white bugs that are on the plant. They are more on the stems than leaves. One of the 3 plants looks like it is dying. I have sprayed Bayer insect on them but it has not helped. What do I need to do?
Azalea lace bug is likely the issue.
Neem Oil is good and safe treatment for insects and fungus issues.
Here are some links with more information.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/azalea/azalea-lace-bug.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/azalea/common-azalea-problems.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/neem-oil-uses.htm