Hi Amy, I live in Austin, Texas where the soil is quite alkaline. I recently purchased azaleas, gardenias and rhododendrons. I understan thet like an acid soil. I was told to plant them in an above ground planter and mix my organic soil with compost and they will do better than triying to constantly regulate our soil. Can I do the same thing in a large pot and plant it in the ground? Because of our sprinkler system and fence I would prefer them planted at ground level. I have heard of people having alot of success planting plams this way. What would your opinion be? Thank you!