Encore Azalea has added five new wholesale grower partners to its Encore Azalea licensed grower group.

The new growers include:

• Bracy’s Nursery, LLC:  Based in Louisiana
• Carolina Nurseries, Inc.:  Based in South Carolina
• Hackney Nursery Company:  Based in Florida
• Hines Nurseries:  With locations in Arizona, California, Texas & Oregon
• Windmill Nursery, LLC:  Based in Louisiana

“The addition of these quality grower partners will expand Encore Azalea availability to more consumers in our current distribution area and provide much-needed increased distribution in California,” says Kip McConnell, director of PDSI, Plant Development Services, Inc.

Encore Azaleas are the invention of plant breeder Robert E. "Buddy" Lee of Independence, La. PDSI, based in Loxley, Ala., assisted Lee in the 15-year hybridization and selection process, and now manages the group of wholesale growers which brings Encore Azaleas to gardeners across the Southeast, Mid-Atlantic, the Northwest and now California.

Encore Azaleas begin blooming each spring like a traditional azalea. Once this initial blooming concludes, new shoots begin to grow and set buds. Blooms emerge again in mid-summer and continue in many areas until first frost – for bloom performance that no other azaleas consistently provide. Today, the 24 varieties of Encore Azalea offer a growth habit and bloom color for every landscape. The evergreen shrubs enjoy more sun than traditional azaleas, but offer the same easy care.

For more information on Encore Azalea, or to find a retailer near you, please visit www.EncoreAzalea.com.