In the lower (warmer) half of the US, Encore Azaleas should get afternoon/evening shade in the Summer. In my area for example, I have them in one of these locations: morning sun only (afternoon and evening shade); dappled sun; "bright" shade. To help, you may want to put an umbrella on top to provide shade during the afternoons and consider .

I would hate to transplant it now though (because we are in the middle of the summer). It is hot so keep the soil as evenly moist as you can, use an umbrella/outside chair/anything else to provide afternoon shade, keep it well mulched to minimize moisture evaporation and transplant it when temps moderate in the Fall.

To know when to water, use the finger method: insert a finger into the soil to a depth of 4" and water if the soil feels dry or almost dry. A gallon of water is good starting point in Spring (reduce or add depending on your weather and soil). Increase the amt of water once temps are regularly above 85F. Increase again if they get into the upper 90s. Then similarly reduce the amt of water back down as temps regularly stay below the upper 90s or below 85F. In the Fall and Winter, I reduce waterings to weekly or every two weeks depending on soil conditions (use the finger method to see if the soil needs water) and local rains. Azalea roots are in the top 4" (approx) so keep this area moist, not soggy, not dry.

Info on watering/planting/etc:

https://www.encoreazalea.com/gardening/plant-care/planting-encore-azaleas

@luis_pr, you're a lifesaver! i mean "Encore Azalea saver". ive been using lawn chairs for shade; and i added 2 " of mulch, after checking toe ensure soil was tappred compactly.

Fingers crossed: 1 of the 3 is still green. none have bloomed. We will see!

luis_pr - i moved the remaining Encore to more shade (next to hosta). even though i took thecrisk mid-summer, it is stable. ..no more deterioration . thanks again!

Sounds great, 1818 Federal!