We sense the soil warming and the days lengthening. This is our signal to break dormancy and begin our most vigorous growth period. Your gentle application of a fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants provides the essential nutrients we need to support this explosive burst of new leaves and flower buds. Please ensure the soil remains consistently moist but never waterlogged, as our fine roots are actively drinking. After our blossoms fade, carefully removing the spent flowers (deadheading) prevents us from wasting energy on seed production and encourages us to put that energy into new growth for next year’s display.
The heat is intense. Our primary focus is on hydration and respiration. Our shallow root systems are vulnerable to drying out, so a deep, thorough watering when the top few inches of soil feel dry is crucial. A layer of organic mulch, like pine needles or bark, is a tremendous help; it keeps our roots cool, conserves moisture, and slowly acidifies the soil as it decomposes. We appreciate being shielded from the harsh afternoon sun, which can scorch our leaves. While our growth slows, we are quietly setting the buds that will become next spring's flowers, so continued vigilance against stress is paramount.
As the air cools, we begin our preparations for winter rest. This is the time for one last, deep watering before the ground freezes, creating a crucial reservoir of moisture in our tissues and the soil (this is often called "water charging"). Please do not fertilize us now, as any new, tender growth stimulated would be highly susceptible to winter damage. Instead, you can help us by adding another layer of mulch to insulate our roots from the coming frosts. We are drawing energy inward, hardening off our current season's growth to survive the cold.
We are asleep, but not inactive. Our systems are in a state of suspended animation, conserving energy. The greatest threat to us now is desiccation—drying out from winter winds and sun when our roots cannot uptake water from the frozen ground. A physical windbreak, such as a burlap screen, can be a lifesaver. On warmer days when the soil thaws, a small drink of water is beneficial to prevent drought stress. Otherwise, we ask for patience as we rest quietly beneath the snow and wait for the sure sign of spring to begin the cycle anew.
