Several small plants are put in one container to give the illusion of full, lush growth. They can be separated or planted together. As you have discovered, plants from the big box stores are often of low quality and have received indifferent care. Any fungus would not be visible in the photos, but the sparse growth is most likely just a result of a bargain that wasn't.

A couple of months later, and the plants are doing well. My main problem was that my soil was alkaline. I guess I didn't take that whole "azaleas need acidic soil" stuff too seriously!

They are filling in nicely. And AKAMAINGROWER, I like your comment about "a bargain that wasn't." I've been considering that lately when I go to the bargin bin.

Hi! I had the same troubles. Your picture looked like my original picture. My Encore Azalea would have more blooms than leaves. I had several azaleas struggling. I thought I just didn't know how to grow azaleas. I used Black Kow fertilizer, and that did help. It wasn't until I bought Azalea fertilizer by Fertilome that I noticed a huge difference. My plants then started to flourish! Leaves are plentiful now. I fertilize twice a year. I never used fertilizer on anything but I do believe there are some plants that really need it. Good luck!

Thank you! It's been years later and those plants are no longer around. But, I'll get some new ones this season because of your advice. Much appreciated.