Evaluation of Container Grown Native Azaleas in Full Sun and 50% Shade in the Mid-Atlantic
ISSN 2158-9429
Volume 17, Issue 2 - December 2024
Editor: Linda Chalker-Scott
Abstract
Deciduous azaleas Rhododendron spp. that are native to the Eastern United States have potential for increased adoption in the ornamental sector yet lack robust performance trials. This study evaluated nine species of container grown native azaleas using typical nursery practices. Plants were grown in full sun or 50% shade and were evaluated for growth index (GI), bloom phenology, and abiotic stress via normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI). Generally, GI was greater under 50% shade, no difference in cumulative flower counts between treatments, and NDVI was reduced in most species grown in full sun, indicating a higher degree of plant stress.
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