SATSUKI AZALEA BONSAI
Rhododendron indicum "Saotome"
Dob - ±2014
Height - 16cm
Origin - UK
Training pot
 
A very small variety of satsuki azalea famous for being difficult to get to flower.
Despite this characteristic it does make a really great subject for mame and shohin sized azalea bonsai.
They grow very well and tolerate quite a lot of pruning.
They can be completly restyled within a matter of a few years so if you want to make big changes to branch placements and overall design, this variety is easy to do that with.
 
Satsuki azaleas have been grown in Japan for 500 years.
Most satsuki varieties are late flowering (May-June).
They outdoor trees and are easy to care for.
They should not be allowed to dry out and should be potted in Kanuma bonsai soil.
During the flowering period, depending on the location, water the bonsai daily sometimes twice a day. Preferably submerge in water until no more air bubbles are coming out then remove and allow to drain.
In summer position in full sun to half shade but don't let it dry out or cook. On the extremely hot sunny days place the tree in the shade.
They are hardy plants that tolerate low temperatures but some protection may benefit when grown in pots..
In principle, all styling techniques (pruning, wiring) should only be started after flowering. After flowering, the remains of the flowers and the stalk are plucked with the fingers or tweezers. Then you should start with pruning and training.
 
The Satsuki azaleas tolerate pruning very well and after being cut back into the old wood they sprout again all over the place. Shoots that grow steeply upwards or downwards should be removed immediately with a sharp bonsai scissors.
 
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