Folio № 1 of 36 · in the garden since 2023
Satsuki Azalea
Rhododendron indicum
Classic flowering bonsai; evergreen with small leaves and vivid blooms; sensitive roots.
The year, as this species lives it
Thirteen phases. Touch any arc — the wheel remembers what each season asks.
Early Fall · Sep 1 – Sep 30 · happening now
- Reduce frequency slightly. Avoid keeping roots soggy.
- Apply final round of low-N fertilizer to support bud set.
- Best time to wire structural branches.
- Clean fallen leaves to prevent fungal spore buildup.
- Can be done now; wood is drying.
click another arc to travel the year →
The care sheet
The constants — what stays true in every season.
Partial shade
Avoid midday sun in summer - leaf burn risk.
High
Must be kept moist - use well-drained, acidic soil.
Balanced
Use azalea-specific fertilizer; avoid lime.
Structural in early spring, maintenance after flowering
Trim after flowering; pinch new shoots regularly.
Spring or Autumn
Avoid wiring thick branches - clip-and-grow preferred.
Every 2-3 years
Repot just before spring growth; protect fine roots.
Cuttings or seed
Semi-hardwood cuttings under mist root best.
Protect from freezing winds and root zone frost.
Keep moist; high heat increases transpiration stress.
On the bench · 1
Every Satsuki Azalea in the garden, oldest hands first.
