Rejuvenating Old Azalea for Bonsai: Fertilize First, Dig Later

13-year-old landscape Azalea (zone 6?) with yellowish leaves, minimal growth/bloom. Wants to make bonsai.

Strategy

1. Do not dig now (summer).
2. Fertilize with acid fertilizer (Holly-tone, Mir-Acid) now to build strength.
3. Root-prune in fall (cut circle at drip line) to encourage fibrous roots.
4. Dig in early spring before bud break; pot in large training pot.
5. Acclimate 1–2 years before bonsai pot.

Why Wait?

Stressed plant + summer dig = high mortality. Build health first.

Community

Learning2Bonsai for Azalea bonsai specifics.