Braided Azalea Tree Care: Winter Indoors, Summer Outdoors

A braided azalea tree shows dry, falling leaves and soil insects after moving indoors for winter in Manitoba. Expert Darlene prescribes:

• Cool temps: 50°F ideal (insulated garage or unheated spare room).
• Bright light: As much sun as possible indoors.
• Constant moisture: Never let dry out; never sit in water.
• Drainage: Empty trays after watering (turkey baster works).
• Humidity: High humidity beneficial.
• Fertilizer: Acid-based (Miracid) during active growth.
• Seasonal cycle: Summer outdoors in semi-shade; fall outdoors until near freezing; spring prune after bloom, then summer outside.

Soil insects likely fungus gnat larvae from wet soil—drying out and drainage fixes this.