Early spring is an exciting time in the garden. Colors are popping up everywhere and can often vie for the attention of those who are admiring. If letting the neighbors have the brighter front yard simply isn't an option, Lemon Light Azalea (Rhododendron 'Lemon Lights') might just be exactly what you need. As part of the Northern Lights Azalea series developed by the University of Minnesota, this Azalea is the real deal! From the get-go, this deciduous masterpiece brings its A-game. Before it even thinks to unfurl its leaves, the shrub will smother itself in lemon-yellow trumpet-shaped flowers. These blooms, while being as elegant as Belle's ball gown from the childhood classic, take on a life of their own upon further inspection. Up close, you'll see the petals are ruffled in their own rendition of a botanical bed head. If Lemon Lights could talk, it would let you know that, yes, it did indeed wake up like this! Almost as an afterthought, it'll fill out with bright green foliage that will shimmer all summer long once the spring blossoms are spent. We suggest plating somewhere close to your windows because this Azalea comes with a light, flowery fragrance we've come to know and love from the Rhododendron family. Since the flowers arrive before the leaves, you'll often notice this Azalea has an almost translucent look to it. If it's not next to the house, you can always cut a few of the branches and bring them inside. Pair them with darker flowers or other warm-colored blooms to create a bouquet your guests will think you've just brought home from the florist. Don't worry, we'll keep your home-grown secret! Like many other deciduous Azaleas, Lemon Lights is a favorite among local pollinators! An afternoon sitting on the patio might even reward you with a fleeting look at a curious Hummingbird or two. They love the long blooms almost as much as you will. Just as you think your shrub couldn't possibly give any more, it decorates itself for fall. The green will turn purple, adding another season of interest to this already irresistible plant Planting and Application: Deciduous Azaleas are often used in northern climates due to their near-tropical look while being quite cold-hardy. These shrubs have a rounded growing habit that keeps them looking prim and proper all season. They won't often stray into the neighboring plant's space either! Use Lemon Lights as the backdrop to your perennial gardens. They'll warm up the crowds each spring with an abundance of yellow flowers, and then make a fantastic background of green while the perennials show off their own flower power. Plant Lemon Lights at the front of your gardens to draw the eyes in and create stunning depth. Planting near the front ensures that everyone passing by can enjoy the sunshine yellow of the blossoms. A welcome sight after long, cold, winters! Especially to every bee, butterfly, hummingbird, and beneficial insect in the neighborhood too! Azaleas are vital nectar and pollen resources for early emerging critters! Mix them with heavier-looking shrubs like Boxwoods or Viburnums. The textures, densities, and colors will complement each other perfectly in mixed shrub borders. You could also plant one next to its pink or red-colored cousins like Fireball or Rosebud Azalea. This all but ensures a clear victory for your early spring garden. If you're limited in space, this is the bush for you. It'll provide a huge dose of lemony yellow without taking up an exorbitant amount of space. Have a large garden? Consider planting a bunch together for a mass planting. Sometimes more really is more! Lemon Yellow Trumpet Shaped Blooms Flowers Beat the Foliage Each Spring Light Green Leaves & Turns Purple in the Fall Lightly Fragrant Blossoms & Great for Indoor Bouquets A Bee, Butterfly & Hummingbird Favorite Mixed Borders, Backdrops, Specimens & Foundations #ProPlantTips for Care: We've all been there, bought a plant that was so pretty it set your heart fluttering only to find out it's horribly hard to take care of. No such worries with Lemon Lights, it's as low maintenance as it is gorgeous! When planting, make sure it's in full sun or partial shade. Either works just fine! Rhododendrons and Azaleas love slightly acidic soils, so if you happen to live somewhere that fits the bill you'll be oh-so happy. If your soil isn't all that acidic, that's alright. We suggest grabbing a bag of Rhododendron fertilizer and giving it a little snack. Make sure not to feed after July as that might delay its winter dormancy. You'll want to spread a nice layer of mulch around your azalea keeping the mulch a few inches away from the stems. Not only does this help protect the roots and evenly distribute moisture, but it'll also make the garden looks amazing! Pruning is easy too! Simply wait until the flowers are done for the season and grab your favorite pair of gardening shears. You'll only want to trim right after flowering. Any other time and you run the risk of hurting next spring's blooms! Full Sun & Part Shade Enriched, Slightly Acidic Well-Drained Soil Moderate Consistent Moisture Needs Appreciates Mulched Beds Prune Immediately After Flower Don't wait for another growing season to pass, order a Northern Lights Lemon Lights Azalea to complete your garden dreams today at NatureHills.com!
