Thanks for the tip--I've already checked them out. It seems like that will be my best bet. I've also joined the ASA. They have an annual seed/swap sale that may be a resource for me as well. Bruce

Azalea seed? I've always wondered about that - with all those flowers, where are the seeds? But my mom just propagated them by laying a branch, still connected to the bush, in loose dirt and putting a rock on top of it. Once it grows good roots, cut it off, and there you go - a free azalea. And I see them planted in huge clusters everywhere down here in southern MS; never noticed signs of disease on the natives. Some of them are ten feet tall, at least, in an enormous mass. I'd think you'd be safe planting them that way as long as you give them lots of room. Of course, this late, you've already got them planted, I'm guessing. :)

Woodlanders is good if you can match your need to their seasonal shipping deadlines. Have used them for other things, but noticed they seem to have a number of the native azaleas. Confirmed they are also on the list of sources posted on the ASA website at the following link. Here is a link that might be useful: Native azalea page at azaleas.org

Too much shade makes an azalea grow tall and lanky. More sun makes it grow denser and look better. You can remove some of the branches causing shade to give it more sun. Also, pruning after it blooms will stimulate new growth. Plants in nurseries are usually pruned several times to stimulate new branch growth and give the fuller look.