What are the common diseases or pests that affect azaleas?

Azaleas are vulnerable to several diseases and pests that can impact their health and overall appearance. Some common diseases affecting azaleas include azalea petal blight, caused by a fungus that causes browning and wilting of flowers, and powdery mildew, characterized by a white powdery growth on leaves. Azalea lace bugs are a common pest that feed on the underside of leaves, resulting in yellowing, speckled foliage. Another pest is the azalea caterpillar, which chews on leaves and causes defoliation. Additionally, azaleas can be susceptible to root rot, caused by overly wet soil, which leads to root decay and poor plant growth. Regular inspection, proper watering, and implementing appropriate pest and disease control measures are essential to maintain healthy and thriving azaleas.