Saving a Potted Azalea in a Mixed Basket

Saving a Potted Azalea in a Mixed Basket

An azalea in a mixed basket with fern and kalanchoe is dropping leaves and flowers after one week.

Problem: Incompatible Needs

• Azaleas need acidic soil, frequent watering, and periodic acid fertilizer (e.g., Miracid).
• Kalanchoe prefers drier conditions.
• Fern likes consistent moisture.

Solution

1. Repot azalea separately in acidic potting mix.
2. Check for spider mites on flowers; treat with miticide if found.
3. Group fern with azalea (similar needs); keep kalanchoe separate.
4. Water azalea/fern regularly; feed azalea with acid fertilizer.

Azaleas are not typically deciduous in this manner—leaf drop signals stress.