Caring For Azalea Leaves Turning Light Green Or Yellow

Question From: East Brunswick, New Jersey, United States
Q: Will Miracle-gro acid help a poor ten-inch tall repotted azalea?? I planted an azalea in April from a 9"pot;and it bloomed great,Blooms are now spent but the leaves are starting to go light green instead of a darker green...I dug it up, flushed the root ball with water and spread out the roots more , and made sure the hole had more mulchy-type soil.It is in a sunny spot and I plan to mulch...Anything else I can do to save this baby? Thanks.

A: Azaleas are acid loving plants that grow best in dappled shade. The leaves are yellowing due to lack of iron, so I suggest you treat the plant with Ironite according to package directions. I would fertilize it with Holly-Tone, available online and at most garden centers. Be sure to keep it well watered. Rainwater is best as it is slightly acid and contains no chlorine. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy.