01.08.11 / Diarrhea / Author: admin / Comments: (0)
The Aztecs were rather religious in nature. This term is used in reference to the ethnic groups of individuals that lived inside the central parts of Mexico. These groups of people were particularly dominant during the 14th, 15th and the 16th century. Perhaps, it’s their extremely religious behavior, which is why we see the presence of Aztec pyramids, which are dominant structure that reflect the kind of beliefs this group had back then. These pyramids thus had many other significant roles to play inside the lives of the Aztecs. Here is really a look at some details associated with Aztec pyramids.
Aztec Pyramids:
The 1 noticeable feature about the Aztec pyramids was the step pattern incorporated inside the design. These Aztec pyramids were mainly built for religious purposes. As mentioned before, the Aztecs were a religious group of individuals. These pyramids were therefore used to worship their Gods as nicely as to supply a sacrifice. The temple area on the top of the pyramid often had flat spaces, which played the role of a sacrificial block.
These pyramids were often symmetrical in their appearance. The structure rose from the center and pointed towards the sky, which holds true for all pyramids. The sides had steep steps and there was usually the presence of a temple on the top. Such step pyramids were also built by other cultures although their styles may possibly have varied. Archaeologists have unearthed that these temples were also a place where elaborate rituals were performed based on certain myths. Their superstitious beliefs could be seen in many functions associated within the style of the Aztec pyramids. Discoveries have revealed, the Aztec pyramids also have specifically designed serpent heads that were placed towards the bottom of the stairs. This symbolized the Snake Mountain- Coatepec (the birth place of the main God of the Aztecs). The reason for this was only to keep evil spirits away. These carved serpent heads were often produced of stone. The Aztecs also used bas-relief as a way to represent their Gods.
These Aztec pyramid temples also symbolized mountains. Mountains, for the Aztecs represented the heart of the city ? a major source of water and fertility. For the Aztecs, symbolism was incorporated into every form used to decorate these pyramids. One can see the presence of sculpted stone blocs and even skulls that were used on the edges of the balustrades. The stones used for the pyramid were often carved in geometrical shapes.
Symbolism was the main characteristic of their architecture. They used various patterns and even colors to signify various meanings. For example, the color black would represent north where as the color blue, symbolized the direction of south. This was also in relation to the particular God that ruled the direction as well. White represented the direction of west and east was symbolized using the color red. Each God that represented these 4 directions was worshipped because they held a great amount of significance to the Aztecs.
The Templo Mayor is actually a fine example that best represents Aztec pyramids. This temple was the main temple of the Tenochtitlan. Also known as the Great Pyramid, it rose to a majestic height of about 60m. Unfortunately, Hern?n Cort?s destroyed it in 1521. Findings by archeologists have revealed that the temple atop this pyramid was in honor of Huitzilopochtli (God of war and sun). This temple was unearthed during the years, 1978 ? 1987.
These were some of the many fascinating details associated with the Aztec pyramids. These magnificent structures stand testimony to the architectural wonders of that era!
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31.07.11 / Diarrhea / Author: admin / Comments: (0)
The Aztecs were rather religious in nature. This term is used in reference to the ethnic groups of men and women that lived within the central parts of Mexico. These groups of individuals were particularly dominant during the 14th, 15th along with the 16th century. Aztec temples are known for their architecture and they take the shape of a pyramid. Aztec pyramids were part of Aztec temples. Here we look at a couple of Aztec temples.
Aztec Temples
Aztec temples were built to worship the various Aztec gods. An Aztec temple was built in the form of a step pyramid. There were two staircases within an Aztec pyramid. Each staircase led to two diverse shrines. The Aztecs practiced human sacrifice to honor the Aztec gods. Human sacrifice was performed inside the Aztec temples.
Templo Mayor
Templo Mayor was completed inside the year 1497 and it housed the gods Huitzilopochtli and Tlaloc. The height of the temple was 197 feet along with the materials that were used were stones covered with stucco and polychrome paint. Templo Mayor was located in the city of Tenochtitlan, present-day Mexico City. During the rainy season, Templo Mayor would often sink and needed to be repaired very often.
Huitzilopochtli, known as the “Hummingbird of the South”, was the god of war, while Tlaloc was the god of fertility and rain. Human sacrifice was the main ritual of this Aztec temple. The historical evidences reveal thousands of human beings were sacrificed at the time of completion of the temple. Evidences show Templo Mayor represented the “Hill of Coatepec”, where Huitzilopochtli was born.
Temple of the Sun as well as the Moon Gods (Teotihuac?n)
This pyramid temple was not build by the Aztecs. Nonetheless, it is believed Teotihuac?n temple architecture inspired the Aztecs. This temple houses the Sun and also the Moon gods. The height of the pyramid of the Sun god is 215 feet, even though that of the Moon god is 138 feet. It truly is believed this temple was plastered and was painted in bright red color. The pyramid temple of the Sun god was built on a lava tube cave. Chalchihuitlicue, or the Sun god, was also known as the goddess of lakes and streams. Tlaloc, the god of fertility and rain, was also known as the Moon god.
Other Aztec Temples
There are many Aztec temples that are known for their architecture magnificence. The temple of Cholula, also known as the Great Pyramid of Cholula, may be the “largest pyramid” by volume within the world. It really is also one of the largest monuments ever constructed.
The temples that were discovered inside the city of Teotenanglo are known as the mountain temples. The reason is they were carved on the side of the mountains. There are historical evidences to prove human sacrifice was 1 of the rituals followed till late 19th century.
The other Aztec temples that are worth mentioning and known for their architectural marvel are Teopanzolco and Xochicalco. Spanish churches replaced many of the Aztec temples, when Mexico was conquered by Spain within the 16th century.
30.07.11 / Diarrhea / Author: admin / Comments: (0)
Aztec mythology and Aztec culture is the result of a migration from the north of the Anahuac valley, the heart of Mexico City. There are various stories about their origin. 1 myth states that they came from a place called Aztlan. This is most likely why the name Azteca or Aztec stuck. Yet another legend has it that they came from Chicomostoc, the land of seven caves.
Aztec Mythology
The Aztecs believed that they were guided by their god, the ‘Left-handed Hummingbird from the South’. They arrived at an island when they saw an eagle perched on a cactus full of fruit. This was read as the fulfillment of a prophecy. They believed that they had reached their new property. They built the city of Tenochtitlan and an artificial island.
Legend has it that when the Aztecs arrived in the Anahuac valley, they were the least civilized of all other tribes. Nevertheless, their passion to learn and compliment the environment helped them to soak in the best from other individuals. They believed the Toltecs to be the originators of all culture. They generated several creation myths. One of the creation theories states that there were five suns and 1 of them, the 1 that lights up our planet right now, will be the last one. Whilst the earlier four perished, the last 1 evaded catastrophe due to the sacrifice of a god. Yet another myth speaks of the twin gods Tezcatlipoca and Quetzalcoatl who created the earth. Representations of Tezcatlipoca show him with out a foot, a limb he is said to have lost although creating the Earth.
The Aztecs worshipped several intriguing gods. Numerous of the unpronounceable names lead us to believe that they ought to have developed dexterous tongues. The pantheon of Aztec deities dictated the belief system within the mighty Aztec Empire. Their festivals comprised celebrations that involved the use of a lot of color, feathers and sacrifices. Most of the festivals were believed to be held to please and coax the Sun god to keep shining brightly.
The Aztecs believed that their gods needed to be fed with fresh blood. They believed that their gods withered and died, if not supplied with the fuel regularly. Hence, their entire culture propagated human sacrifice. Individuals not only queued up to give up their lives at alters, but even played charity matches on any such occasion. Several of the Aztec gods belonged to a number of regions, tribes and cultures.
Aztec Gods
Some of the many Aztec gods include: Acolmiztli – the god of the underworld, Atlacamani – the goddess of hurricanes, Atlacoya – the goddess of drought, Atlaua – the god of water, Camaxtli – the god of hunting and fire and Chalchiuhtecolotl – the night owl. The Aztecs venerated numerous serpent gods like Chicomecoatl, Coatlicue and Xiuhcoatl. They also worshipped groups of gods such as Ahuiateteo – the five gods of excess, Centzon Huitznahua – the southern stars, Skybearers who are associated using the 4 cardinal directions and Tzitzimime – the star demons of darkness.
In addition to the various gods mentioned, the Aztecs also worshipped a number of supernatural creatures like Ahuitzotl – the dog-monkey, Cihuateteo – the spirits of women who die during childbirth, a vegetable spirit called Nagual and even Tlaltecuhtli – the toad goddess. Their mythology led to worship of the legendary hero Popocatepetl and even a number of places. Among the places that the Aztecs revered as holy were Apanoayan – the very first of Mictlan’s nine levels, Aztl?n – the land of the herons, Mictlan – the underworld, Tlalocan – the original paradise and Tehuantepec – the hill of the sacred jaguar.
The rich culture found complete expression in their art forms and architecture. The Aztecs left behind a construction style that is unique and as colorful as were the people themselves.
29.07.11 / Diarrhea / Author: admin / Comments: (0)
The tribes from the areas of central Mexico were referred to as the Aztecs. The term also includes the seven Chichimec tribes and all the inhabitants of Tenochititlan’s city states. The culture actually originated in Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico and Colorado. This civilization was advanced in a lot of ways as they built cities based on intricate detailing. Religion was the most important thing for the Aztecs. They worshiped diverse Gods and Goddesses. Based on their belief, every God represented a different aspect of life. They even performed sacrifices in temples.
The Aztec creation stories have their very own theories to the way the world began. With time, there were several versions of the original creation myth. Creation myths are stories about how the world and entire mankind came into existence and every race has some very fascinating versions to add to it. Let’s read about the Aztec story of creation.
Basically, the story revolves around birth, followed by death and then rebirth. The Aztec story revolves around the birth of the five worlds. As per the Aztecs, the universe had its own beginning. The Aztecs believed that the opposites inside the universe often had to unite. For example, the union of a male and female was necessary to bear children. The Aztecs also believed in giving importance to direction, thus came into being, the 4 important Gods, Huizilopochtli, Tezcatlipoca, Xipe Totec and Quetzalcoatl. These 4 Gods that represented North, South, East and West came together and created water and other Gods as well. They also created a sea demon known as Cipactli. It was believed Cipactli was the main source of the cosmos.
Since all the Gods were creating things, they realized that their creations might be harmed by the sea demon. So, they decided to attack Cipactli. The monster gave a tough fight but the Gods pulled it in 4 distinct directions. Cipactli was finally destroyed but before doing so, Tezcatlipoca’s foot was torn off. It was believed that the universe was created from this huge sea monster with the earth inside the middle.
The sun came into being through the sacrifice of the God, Tezcatlipoca. This gave a brand new source of energy. Meanwhile, there was a fight between the Gods, Quetzalcoatl and Tezcatlipoca as the latter only became 1 part of the sun. The fight resulted within the destruction of the sun which angered Tezcatlipoca. Meanwhile, Quetzalcoatl decided to become the sun. This was time when humans came into being. This was the creation of the second sun. Even so, Tezcatlipoca turned some humans into monkeys which caused a furious Quetzalcoatl to blow them away with the assist of a hurricane.
Then came the existence of the third sun. This was taken over by Tlaloc, a creation of the Gods. Nonetheless, Tezcatlipoca caused problems for Tlaloc and a grief stricken Tlaloc burnt brightly as the sun without having the chance of rain for the humans. His anger finally resulted in self destruction.
After the destruction of the fourth sun, the Aztec story mentions that Tlaloc’s sister soon became the next sun. This angered Quetzalcoatl and Tezcatlipoca. Even though destroying her, she fell down which caused the sky to open and release water that flooded earth and caused destruction once again.
At last the Gods came together for the creation of yet another sun. This is when Tecuciztecatl wanted to become the sun but the Gods preferred Nanahuatzin. When a fire was built, Nanahuatzin jumped in followed by an angry Tecuciztecatl. Suddenly, two suns rose up on the horizon within the east. A God threw a rabbit at the brightest sun in an effort to reduce the brightness of the sun. This even so, turned into the moon. Meanwhile, Nanahuatzin needed energy as the sun, as he was not bright sufficient. The Gods thus gave Nanahuatzin blood for the creation of much more energy. So, in this manner, the world was formed according to the Aztec creation myth. Over the ages, the Aztecs worshiped numerous sun Gods.
Today, the Aztec culture and civilization is an fascinating subject and also the recent archaeological excavations provide crucial evidence about this ethnic group. This civilization is also 1 of the most documented of all, by historians, linguists and ethnologists.
28.07.11 / Diarrhea / Author: admin / Comments: (0)
The origin of the Aztec tattoo is in Mexico. The Aztec civilization was dominant in central Mexico from the 14th to 16th century. Spanish colonizers are said to be the destroyers of this civilization. It really is even so very tough to say whether today’s Mexicans derive their ancestry from the Aztecs. Aztecs have great mythology, which is where Aztec tattoos and their meanings come from.
Aztec Tattoos and their Meanings
There are some facts about Aztec tattoos, which are fascinating to know.Aztec tattoos inside the Aztec culture were usually done in honor of some Aztec God. They were done only during rituals.These tattoos were also used to differentiate between men and women belonging to different tribes.Aztec tattoos also symbolized a warrior’s rank and his achievements.The placement of the Aztec tattoos was dependent on which God you want to appease. Wrist, chest and stomach were the most popular body parts where the tattoos were made. These areas are said to be the seats of power and therefore they were selected for tattooing. The language which was used for this Aztec tattoo art was ?Nahuatl?. Read much more on Aztec story of creation. Now that we know some facts about Aztec tattoos, we will look at ancient Aztec symbols and meanings.
Sun: An Aztec sun tattoo was made in honor of the Aztec sun god, called Huitzilopochtli. The sun god was the most crucial god to the Aztecs as he was said to be the guardian of heaven. The guarantee of following life was said to be the sun, due to its constant rising and setting. Therefore, the meaning of the Aztec sun tattoo is ?belief in afterlife?. It was also created to show adoration for the sun god. Read far more on aztec mythology and Aztec gods.
Eagle: Amongst the tattoos of animals and birds, the eagle was very widely used. The meaning of this Aztec symbol was power, strength and courage. These attributes were attached to eagles due to their amazing flying skills, large size and strong nature. A tattoo of an Aztec eagle was therefore often found on Aztec warriors. Although there are various images of an eagle that are available, the eagle with its head pointing towards the west, its beak open and several feathers sticking out from the top of its head , is said to be the authentic ancient Aztec tattoo symbol.
Warrior: This Aztec tattoo was given high importance amongst all Aztec tattoos. The meaning of this Aztec tattoo design was the journey of the soul to its after life. Very often it is seen that many individuals get an eagle also tattooed along with the warrior. As an Aztec warrior is said to draw his strength from an eagle.
Calender: An Aztec calender tattoo contains images of various facial functions. According to the Aztec culture each creature represents a month. This creature is said to be a harbinger of several mythical and spiritual properties. Uitzilopochtle, the god of the Sun is often shown in several diverse forms within the Aztec calender. There is really a lot of importance that is being attached to this Aztec symbol and its meanings.
Crocodile: A crocodile is also a part of Aztec tattoo designs. This crocodile is not a crocodile within the strictest sense of the term. It really is actually a monster like creature, which resembles the crocodile. There are also various variations which are available of this creature. This Aztec tattoo symbol became famous for this fearsome nature.
Feathered Serpent: Quetzalcoatl, may be the feathered serpent god. This god will be the god of weather, creativity and also fertility. It truly is also said to be the most powerful of the Aztec gods. Therefore, this Aztec style is very popular and a lot of folks derive this meaning, and get themselves tattooed with the feathered serpent symbol.
Tezcatlipoca: This may be the Aztec name of the warrior god. He is usually tattooed with his tongue sticking out. His face is very fierce and therefore, is also very popular.
For far more information, read Aztec templesAztec PyramidsThere are a lot of folks these days who adorn this Aztec tattoo art on their body due to Aztec tattoos and meanings attached to them. I hope my piece of work on Aztec tattoos and their meanings is of use to you.
27.07.11 / Diarrhea / Author: admin / Comments: (0)
Azalea are flowering shrubs and sub-genera of the genus rhododendron. There are two sub-genera of rhododendron, the ‘Tsutsuji’ and ‘Pentanthera’ which are classified as azalea. Azalea plants grow in damp mountainous places and flowering season starts in spring. An important thing to consider in azalea care may be the light requirement. The sun light require to grow these plants is much lesser than other rhododendrons and are therefore, found in shaded places. Azalea grow without much trouble once they are established in a particular setting. 1 doesn’t have to pay much attention to these hardy plants after the basic requirements are fulfilled. Let understand in detail how to care for azaleas which are flowering plants.
Azalea Care Instructions
Climatic conditions with moderate humidity and temperature are needed for the growth of azalea. The temperature that is best suited for growing azaleas is 20? C. Hot and dry climatic conditions result inside the shedding of leaves. Therefore, a shady place is suitable. Azaleas grow well if planted near the pines and oaks.
Soil Requirements
The soil in which azaleas are grown want to have pH that is equal to or lesser than 5.5. The soil types which are suitable for growing trees like holly, pine and oak are suitable for azaleas. Checking soil pH is possible with the assist of soil pH tests. Reports on the test being conducted could be obtained by sending the samples to local county extension agents. It’s better to grow azalea in soils that is rich in organic matter.
Planting
To plant the azaleas in a proper manner is very crucial for their healthy growth. For planting an azalea sapling, a hole that is twice as large as the size of the earlier container should be used. Amendments may be added at the time of planting itself. It helps in feeding the plant for first few days.
Watering
Azalea plants require high amount of water. Watering should not be done with sprinklers or by any other means which result in superficial wetting. Azalea plants need to be watered at regular intervals and in a manner that the soil is soaked/drenched completely.
Fertilizer Application
One has to be careful whilst feeding and fertilizing azaleas. Proper nourishment could be provided by means of formulated preparations. Generalized methods of providing fertilizers should not be adopted for chemical fertilizers. Organic fertilizers don’t result in any kind of side-effects and therefore, 1 will need not be concerned much although determining their dose and type. Cottonseed meal is an organic form of fertilizer that 1 should use for azaleas. Broadcasting method of applying fertilizer require to be used.
Pests and Diseases
Azalea plant is affected by fungal diseases and 1 approach to prevent them is maintaining cleanliness around the stems and root zone. Any decaying leaves found near the trunk should be removed. Organic fungicides are the best option for keeping fungal diseases at bay.
Mulching
The practice of mulching helps in preserving soil moisture around plant roots. Mulching is done in late autumn and pine leaves are generally used in shredded form. Mulching with hardwood barks should not be considered, as it causes alkalinity to rise. The depth of mulches being used needs to be around 1 inch. Care should be taken to see that the stem is not covered. Keeping the stem and trunk, free of mulching helps in reducing rodent infestation.
The above mentioned instructions about azalea care should be followed to keep the plant in healthy condition. Taking proper and timely care helps in producing beautiful and healthy blooms.
26.07.11 / Diarrhea / Author: admin / Comments: (0)
Are you planning to grow azaleas in your flower garden? These flowering shrubs belong to the genusRhododendron and are members of the Ericaceae family. Generally, the term rhododendron is commonly associated using the group of plants that have large evergreen foliage, but azalea is an exception because of its smaller and thinner leaves. If you follow azaleas planting instructions properly, your garden will look like a beautiful landscape during the bloom season. These flowers come in amazing hues. As far as the height of this flowering bush is concerned, most of the varieties of azaleas can reach a height ranging from 2-8 feet. The beautiful blooms will show up in the spring season. Not only do they come in amazing colors such as red, white, lavender, bright orange, gold, red and purple, they also have a lovely fragrance.
Naturally, azaleas grow properly in damp mountainous regions, but you can make these gorgeous flowers grow well in your own garden. Just provide them using the conditions necessary for their growth as you pursue azaleas planting, and enjoy watching these beautiful azalea blooms decorate your patio or garden. Read far more on azalea care.
Azaleas Planting Requirements
Selecting and Growing Azaleas
Now that you have decided that you want azaleas to be a part of your flower garden, let us talk about the azaleas planting or propagation methods. Wondering how to plant azaleas? Azaleas may be grown from seeds, cuttings or grafting. Since growing azaleas by sowing seeds can mean waiting for a long time to see the blooms, it could be a better idea to purchase azalea plant from a garden store. Be very careful although selecting the variety. Select a variety that will grow well in your region. Acquire an established plant that is in full bloom and keep it indoors or in the patio. Once the bloom season is over, these might be transplanted into a flower bed. The perfect time for azaleas planting or transplanting is during the early spring or early fall.
Soil
The quality of soil is very crucial. You will need to check the pH factor. For azaleas to grow nicely, the pH ought to be inside the range of 5.5-6.0. So, a relatively acidic soil will be conducive to the growth of this flowering bush. The soil must also be well-drained. Once soil testing is over, dig a hole which is wider than the plant’s root ball. Since the root system of azaleas is shallow, don’t dig a very deep hole, make sure that the top of the roots are covered. Read more on soil testing – how to test soil pH.
Sunlight
For azaleas planting, look for a place that receives few hours of morning sun. You should protect the plant from strong sunshine during the afternoon hours. If the site receives full sunlight throughout the day, the plant can get damaged and also the color of the blooms can even get affected.
Watering
You require to be very cautious about watering. If you notice wilted and droopy leaves, this can be a sign that the plant needs to be watered more often. Water more frequently during the dry spells. Water the plant generously to keep the soil moist, but don’t go on a watering spree. Excessive watering can lead to problems such as root rot.
Mulching
You should also apply a layer of organic mulch or compost to the soil. A 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch will support in preserving the soil’s moisture and prevent the roots from getting dried up. It really is also effective in curbing the growth of weeds. Mulch should be kept a few inches away from the stem of the shrub. You could use leaves, barks or pine needles as mulch. Read a lot more on tips for mulching.
Pruning
As far as pruning is concerned, you just will need to remove the spent flowers, and cut back longer branches. Pruning and planting azaleas is not a tedious process, just cut off the dead wood and dead branches. Pruning need to be done if the flowering bush has overgrown.
Read much more on:Flower Gardening TipsContainer Flower GardeningFlowering Bushes, Shrubs and TreesNow that you are aware of the tips for planting azaleas perfectly, you can include this beautiful flowering bush to enhance the look of your garden. Planting azaleas is not challenging, you just require to use the following azaleas planting instructions. So, what are you waiting for? Use this azaleas planting information to add this beautiful flowering bush to your garden. Happy gardening!
25.07.11 / Diarrhea / Author: admin / Comments: (0)
Azalea shrubs are from the identical family of rhododendrons and they may be deciduous or evergreen. You can get deciduous Azalea flowers of the color yellow, orange or red. The leaves of such deciduous shrubs take on colors of orange, red and deep maroon during the winter season. Evergreen Azaleas, on the other hand, come in pastel color. Each year, these evergreen species of the Azaleas grow two sets of leaves, out of which, 1 set is shed within the fall as well as the other, in the spring. Let us now have a look at what ought to be looked right after to care for your Azalea flowers, their plantation and growing. Read far more on flowering plants.
How to Take Care of Azalea Flowers
Taking care of the water supply may be the most important part in caring for Azalea flowers. Do not let the soil dry out, as this makes it difficult to rehydrate the plant and also the flowers. Also, do not let the roots sit in water and ensure that the container has several drainage holes, to prevent root rot. Keep the soil evenly moist. If it feels light or you find the top layer of the soil dry, then consider watering the plant. Lack of water is indicated by the wilting of the plant and if your plant does wilt, then place it in a dish of water and let it soak for a few hours. This will aid in getting the plant rehydrated. Although, the plant will gain back its original posture, there might be a few wrinkled and dry Azalea flowers, brown leaf tips and even leaf drop. What you can do is remove the wilted flowers and give the plant a good pruning soon after it has bloomed again. Remember not to prune the plant right after mid summer. Doing this could sabotage the production of flowers within the coming year.
In late summer you should have an inspection of any damaged branches. Remove them at the point from where the damage has started. Azalea flowers do not require fertilizer until they are provided with a good mulch. Even so, if the leaves are seen to grow paler in their deep green color, then feed the plant having a small amount of Azalea fertilizer. Ensure that you do not overfeed the plant with it as it may burn the roots.
Planting and Growing Azalea Flowers
The fall or the spring is considered an ideal time to plant an Azalea plant. The soil needed, need to be loose and well drained. Add some compost to the soil to make it organic. As I said, the soil need to be well drained and in order to ensure this, dig a hole and fill it with water. Give it a wait of 1 hour to see if the water drains out. If not, then add a drain pipe to the bottom of the hole to encourage proper drainage. Alternatively, build a raised planting bed. The area where the plant is to be planted has to be 12 inches deep, as Azalea’s roots do not go deep but they spread. Although planting the plant, ensure that it stays higher than the soil line as this will assist it to settle. Water generously and apply a thin layer of mulch. Do not place the plant under direct sun, light shaded area is preferable. Also, heavy winds might number the days of your Azalea flowers. So, select a location that has a building or fence as a protection. If the temperature of your place goes below 0 – 10 degrees F, then it could be advisable to keep your Azalea plant indoors or inside a climate controlled greenhouse.
Read more on:Azalea CareAzaleas PlantingRhododendron CareTo conclude, diseases which could affect your Azalea flowers include Azalea caterpillars, Azalea lace bugs, Azalea leaf miners, whiteflies, Agall, petal blight, powdery mildew, rust and twig blight.
24.07.11 / Diarrhea / Author: admin / Comments: (0)
Azaleas are deciduous and evergreen flowering plants which bloom in spring. Mostly found in damp mountainous spots, azaleas flowers die only right after few weeks of life. As too much of sunlight is not an issue for azaleas, how to grow them in your residence takes only few extra measures on your part. If you wish to learn how to grow azaleas as a houseplant, then go through the following article for necessary instructions.
How to Grow Azaleas Indoors?
Growing azaleas in your property provides great amount of brightness and beautiful funnel-shaped flowers. Azaleas flowers bloom for a month at a time in cool, humid conditions. So a spot for these flowers could be on the porch or windowsill. All you have to do is keep watering watering your azaleas. If you have decided to plant indoor azaleas, how to grow and take care of these plants could be challenge-free. Read far more on azalea care.
Materials NeededAcidic houseplant fertilizerPeat-based potting soilSpray bottleClay potAzaleasStep #1: From a reputable breeder or nursery, purchase your azaleas; planting it with few blooms or buds will be much easier than seeds. Make sure that your azalea has dark green leaves with plenty of buds.
Step #2: As we discussed earlier, azaleas require a cool spot for growing. So choose a room or porch which can hold a temperature between 55? F to 60? F. One more reason for keeping the azaleas in a cool location is because this will prolong the blooming season, as compared to a month. The plant doesn’t will need direct sunlight (partly shaded), however, do keep the plant where there is lots of sunlight. One of the biggest errors people make even though understanding how to grow azaleas, is keeping the plant directly in afternoon sunlight. During the midday period, the sunlight can damage the azaleas flowers.
Step #3: Now comes the part where we water the azaleas. How to grow the plant and keep it blooming for a long time depends on that. So always keep the soil moist and it should be damp to touch at all times. But do make sure not to drown the plant as properly. When there are no flowers, fill the spray bottle with water and mist the leaves once a day. You can use tap water to mist and water the azaleas.
Step #4: Usually make sure to remove any dead or damaged flowers. Pull them off the plant and discard the deadheaded blooms as nicely. Also remove the dead flowers that may have fallen on the ground.
Step #5: Purchase an acidic houseplant fertilizer and use it for the flowers once a month. The fertilizer bag should say “acidic” or should contain sulfur in it as that works too. Only time you will use the fertilizer is when the flowers have died, and stop giving fertilizers when the plant has blooms.
Step #6: Once the azaleas start to overcrowd, repot them, preferably in late summer or early fall. Most azaleas will need repotting every 2 to three years in a bigger clay pot. For repotting, add peat-based potting soil inside the new clay pot and then transfer the plant with its root system as well. The correct way is by holding it from its base and gently tipping the old pot upside down. This way the plant will slide out of the pot with ease and might be replaced inside the new pot immediately. You will require to use the potting soil to cover the roots and pat it slightly around the base.
Now that you know the correct steps to take care of azaleas, how to grow them will be a piece of cake. If you live in a city where the water is alkaline, add a tablespoon of vinegar to a gallon of water for watering, but not misting. As we saw the azaleas were provided acidic fertilizer as well, the soil pH levels want to be maintained. To activate flowering, leave the plant outside in summers. This way you can give them using the cool breeze of early fall. But make sure to bring the plant back inside when frost hits.
23.07.11 / Diarrhea / Author: admin / Comments: (0)
Azaleas belong to the genus of Rhododendron. These plants can live for long, when their proper requirements are met. 1 can even find azaleas which are over hundreds of years old. Hence, to maintain and grow azalea better, proper pruning is essential. Mentioned below are critical pruning azaleas instructions, that will support you determine the right time for pruning these bushes, and understand the right technique for pruning, to maintain optimum health of your azaleas.
Azalea Pruning Tips
Why to Prune?
Before, you start pruning for azalea care, ask yourself why are you pruning this bush. Most folks tend to prune azaleas because they’ve become overgrown, and so require to be cut back, so that its size is maintained. Whilst some men and women like to maintain a shape of the plant. Try never to prune azaleas in a square shape or any rigid shape. As, azaleas look best and do best when they are pruned to maintain a natural shape. Cutting them in a box shape will result in spotty flowering, and splotchy growth of the branches. When cutting azaleas to a desired shape, visualize a shape and then just cut out the branches which are out of that shape.
To avoid pruning too much, choosing the right variety of azaleas whilst deciding on azaleas planting, can help. Satsuki Hybrids like gumpo grow only a feet tall, whilst some varieties of Southern Indica Hybrids like ‘George Lindley Tabor’ and ‘Mrs. G.G. Gerbing’ can grow till 10 feet. Hence, check the label on the bush, while buying the plant to see what variety it’s.
When to Prune?
The best time for pruning azaleas is inside the early spring, before there is new growth on the plant. Even so, this will cut out that year’s blooms, but it does give the plant the full growing season to fill out, and time for the new growth to mature before the winter comes. An additional good time to prune this plant is when there are azalea flowers on the plant, which means you will have some cut flowers. You can also prune them just soon after the bloom, if you wish to have flowers on the plant. As most azaleas tend to start growing the next year’s flower buds soon, soon after they have bloomed, pruning during mid summer cuts off next year’s bloom. Pruning azaleas in late summer is not a good idea. Because, late pruning runs the risk of tender growth being killed during the cold seasons. Pruning azaleas within the fall, should also be avoided.
What to Use for Pruning?
For pruning these flowering plant, use a pair of hand clipper and loppers. The hand clipper works properly on the limbs which are smaller as well as the loppers support to cut the branches which are over half an inch thick. Also, they have long handles, allowing you to reach to the center of the bush.
How to Prune?
Start by pruning out the dead and diseased branches. Make sure you make a clean cut, and on each cut apply diluted mouthwash to avoid spreading infection from the diseased branches. Then prune back, the tall and gangly limbs which are shooting out from the top of the bush. This helps to promote a very attractive yet compact shape. If you have older azaleas, then remove the tall branches over several years, this prevents shock to the plant. Remove a few tallest branches, whilst taking care to cut back to a side branch which is heading inside the desired direction. When you are pruning these plants,don’t worry about cutting it back to a connection branch, as there will be new branches coming right from the areas where you produced the cut.
This was all about pruning azaleas. So follow the above tips and cut azaleas at the right time using the right technique, to achieve beautiful shapely plant, and beautiful blooms!