Village Nurseries, a specialty wholesale grower for landscape professionals, will be carrying Encore Azalea as part of its licensing agreement with Loxley, AL-based Plant Development Services, Inc.
Encore Azalea, introduced in 1996, includes 25 varieties that bloom in spring, summer and fall. They are the result of a 15-year hybridization and selection process by Encore Azalea inventor Robert E. “Buddy” Lee. The evergreen shrubs enjoy more sun than traditional azaleas, but offer the same care. Encore Azaleas are also valued for their cold-hardiness, heat tolerance and resistance to lace bugs, according to the company.
Encore Azaleas begin blooming each spring like a traditional azalea. Once this initial blooming concludes, new shoots begin to grow and set buds. Then blooms emerge again in mid-summer and continue in many areas until first frost.
