Rhododendron Girard‘s Renee Michelle Pink #3

If you want that famous "Augusta golf tournament" look in your landscape, you will need to consider the Azaleas.

It is not really spring in North Carolina until the Azaleas pop up. Here at Mitchell's, these are favorites because they are the undisputed champions of spring color. Whether you prefer the massive, one-time explosion of a traditional variety or the multi-season show of an Encore®, these shrubs bring intense color to the landscape.

In the King and Winston-Salem area, Azaleas are the perfect solution to the "what do I plant under that big tree?" dilemma. They thrive in the dappled shade provided by our native trees - spots where turfgrass usually struggles.

Why we recommend them for NC Piedmont Triad landscapes:

• Shade Solvers: If you have a dark corner or a wooded lot, Azaleas turn those shadows into a spotlight. They actually prefer protection from the hot afternoon sun.

• Acid Soil Lovers: You know that acidic soil we have around here that makes other plants fussy? Azaleas love it. They are perfectly evolved to thrive in our specific soil chemistry.

• The Re-Bloom Factor: We stock plenty of re-blooming varieties (like Encores) that give you a massive show in the spring and then come back for an encore performance in late summer and fall.

Best Used For: Woodland borders, foundation plantings (especially on the north or east side of the house), mass plantings for color, and container gardening.

A Note on Care: Azaleas have shallow roots and require well-draining soil—they hate having "wet feet." We recommend amending our heavy clay with planting mix to ensure they drain well. For deep dives on proper planting techniques and variety selection, check the NC State Extension Azalea Chapter or grab one of our team members for a chat.