| I'd be willing to bet that you're azaleas are being devoured by the Azalea Sawfly larvae, a caterpillar-looking insect capable of doing quite a bit of damage. They didn't appear overnight, but we often don't find these darned little things until the damage to the azalea attracts our eye. Which is what happened to you. As long as your insecticidal soap applications hit the sawfly larvae directly, it's a worthwhile control. Even sharp streams of water can dislodge them, making them more vulnerable to their predators. Of course, hand removal is an option, as well. Time will tell if your plants will refoliate. Some woody trees and shrubs will recover over the season. But even if the azaleas continue to look munched on, they should eventually be fine. Next year, keep your eye out for them EARLY! They hide along the veins of the leaves. Watch out for darker colored sawflies that feed on the flowers. | 
