General
A popular flowering shrub, the Azalea also makes a nice bonsai subject. Most frequently, Satsuki Azaleas, a native of Japan, are used for training as bonsai. Satsuki translates to "fifth month" because these cultivars bloom in early summer.

Typical Styles
Informal Upright (Moyogi)
Exposed Root Style (Ne Agari)
Triple-Trunk Style (Tosho)

Sun and Temperature
Partial sun. Protect from frosts.

Watering
Daily watering and always keep soil moist. Use rainwater if possible to help soil preserve acidity.

Feeding
Feed every two weeks until flowering and mostly post-flowering through Fall. Fertilizers for acid-loving plants are helpful (half strength Miracid, for instance).

Pruning/Wiring
Prune branches in late summer. Old wood is brittle and not easily moved.

Repotting
Repot after flowering. Use soil without small particals since the Azalea's fine roots tend to mat. Use slightly acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5 ideally.

Propagation
From soft wood cuttings and air layering after flowering.

Pests
Red spider mites, petal blight, Aphids, lacebugs, white fly, leafminers, and scale.