Between the Pine Collection and the Maze Garden on Three-Mile Drive
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For more than 60 years, University of Minnesota plant breeders have used the 1.5-acre plot just southwest of the Hedge Collection on Three-Mile Drive to test new varieties of deciduous azaleas for cold-climate gardens. Breeders evaluate the more than 700 shrubs planted here to measure bloom color and time, disease resistance, cold-hardiness and ease of growing. Visitors should visit this enchanting pathway in late May and early June for the best rainbow display of blooms.
Garden Plants
For a full list of plants in the garden, check out our Plant Finder where you can search by location.
- Azalea Electric Lights™ Red
- Azalea Lilac Lights™
- Azalea Orchid Lights™
- Azalea Golden Lights™
- Azalea Candy Lights™
- Azalea Mandarin Lights™
- Azalea Northern Lights™
- Azalea Rosy Lights™
All ™ are registered trademarks owned by the Regents of the University of Minnesota.
At-Home Gardening & Care
- Plant cold-hardy UMN-developed deciduous Lights-series azaleas from the Lights series bred by the University of Minnesota to withstand northern winters.
- Azaleas thrive in acidic soil with a pH of 4-5.5. Test your soil before planting and amend if needed.
- Find the right spot with at least 6 hours of sun and afternoon shade.
- Add a layer of mulch to protect their shallow roots and water weekly.
Learn more about University of Minnesota azalea care on Minnesota Hardy
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