Azalea

[Lynne]

I have an azalea that I have been tending since May. Now that the weather is turning colder here in NJ, I need advice on what to do with my plant. I really do not have a place that will not freeze outside. Can I place the plant in the unheated workshop for the winter? How often do I water a dormant plant? What is too cold for this plant?

Thank you for your advice!

[ynot]

I have an azalea that I have been tending since May. Now that the weather is turning colder here in NJ, I need advice on what to do with my plant. I really do not have a place that will not freeze outside. Can I place the plant in the unheated workshop for the winter? What is too cold for this plant?

Thank you for your advice!

Hello Lynne,
This tree has remained ouside acclimating to the dropping temperatures/shortening daylight hours, is that correct?
This step is required for it to achieve a suitable degree of cold hardiness. After all, You can't just toss them out in the cold.

A care sheet or two for you.
General: https://www.bonsai4me.com/SpeciesGuide/Rhododendron.html
I don't know if you know your specific variety [This would help you to effectively google it for more info].
These are two of the most popular for bonsai.
https://www.bonsai-bci.com/species/satsuki-azalea.html
https://www.bonsai-bci.com/species/kurume-azalea.html

Does your workshop have a window to provide light [As Azaleas are evergreen and need light even during dormancy albeit at lower levels.]
What is the average high temp for the winter inside the shop?
The evergreen gardenworks links on dormancy below will give you an idea of what is required for a satisfactory dormancy tempwise.

It is easy to insulate your plant when armed with little knowledge .
Start here: https://www.bonsai4me.com/Basics.html and here: https://www.evergreengardenworks.com/articles.htm
Read a bit about dormancy and overwintering at: https://www.bonsai4me.com/Basics/Basics_WinterCare.html
https://www.evergreengardenworks.com/dormancy.htm

How often do I water a dormant plant?

Exactly like any other plant, When it needs it. There is no such thing as a schedule for watering bonsai. It will use water at a vastly reduced rate during dormancy but do still check it. Remember if the soil is frozen solid that means it contains moisture and no watering is required.
Please read through the links provided, You will discover alot of info there.
Good luck
ynot