Tallahassee in springtime is defined by azaleas. From late February through April, neighborhoods across the city erupt in waves of pink, white, red, and coral as these iconic shrubs put on their annual show. What makes azaleas such a perfect fit for Tallahassee landscapes is that they naturally thrive in the conditions that already exist beneath our towering oaks and pines -- filtered light, acidic soil, and the dappled shade cast by mature tree canopies. If you have large trees on your property, azaleas are one of the best understory plantings you can choose.
Selecting the right azalea varieties for your site is the first step toward success. Southern Indica azaleas, including popular cultivars like Formosa, George Lindley Tabor, and Mrs. G.G. Gerbing, are among the most widely planted in Tallahassee and perform reliably year after year. These varieties grow large -- often six to eight feet tall and wide -- and produce masses of blooms in early to mid-spring. For smaller spaces, Kurume and Satsuki azaleas offer more compact growth habits with equally impressive flowering. Native azalea species, such as the Florida flame azalea, bring a different kind of beauty with their tubular, fragrant blooms and are particularly well adapted to our local soils.
Planting and care are straightforward, but a few details matter enormously. Azaleas have shallow, fibrous root systems that are sensitive to being planted too deep -- the top of the root ball should sit at or slightly above the surrounding soil grade. Mulching is essential, and pine straw is the traditional choice in Tallahassee because it helps maintain the acidic soil pH that azaleas prefer. Water consistently during the first year of establishment, especially during dry spells in late spring and fall. Avoid heavy fertilization -- a light application of an acid-forming fertilizer in spring after flowering is usually all that is needed.
One important consideration when planting azaleas beneath large trees is root competition. Mature oaks and pines have extensive root networks that compete for water and nutrients. Planting azaleas near the outer edge of the tree canopy's drip line, rather than right against the trunk, gives them a better chance to establish without being outcompeted. If your trees have a very dense canopy that blocks almost all light, some selective limb removal or thinning can open up enough filtered sunlight to allow azaleas to flourish. Miller's Tree Service regularly helps homeowners improve understory growing conditions through targeted canopy management that benefits both the trees above and the plantings below.
