Repotting vs pruning a Dwarf rhodo

Hi,
New to Bonsai. I recently purchased a Dwarf Rhododendron. It needs to be re-potted but it also looks like it could stand some initial pruning to encourage new growth and fill in bare spots. I'm wondering if I should be both re-potting and pruning or just one or the other.

Also, I have seen on the site that I should be mixing organic matter with my Bonsai soil. But I haven't found any sort of recipe of organic soil to Bonsai soil. Anyone have any recommendations?

Thanks,

Doug

The soil to use for Azaleas is Kanuma. Yes you can prune at the same time, that is normal with Azaleas.

DougC wrote: Hi,
Also, I have seen on the site that I should be mixing organic matter with my Bonsai soil. But I haven't found any sort of recipe of organic soil to Bonsai soil. Anyone have any recommendations?

Doug

Soil mix is an arcane science. Everyone does it differently. At our last club meeting that was the main discussion and everyone had different recipes, both what to mix and amounts.

In our area, central Alabama, we get long, hot days with lows to highs of 90F/30C to 105/41 for months and many of us use organics to add water holding capability. Some use plain potting soil, some old coffee grounds, some ground up pine cones, and some more specialized stuff.

So, take your pick. A consideration is climate in your locale. I do not think much water holding capability would be a good idea if you have a lot of cold, wet weather.

For most species I agree with you, however, Azaleas are diffferent, they need an ericacious mix, Kanuma is the standard soil to use.

m5eaygeoff wrote: For most species I agree with you, however, Azaleas are diffferent, they need an ericacious mix, Kanuma is the standard soil to use.

And yet.. Mine does very well on kitty litter, 5 or so years now...

well, I think you know what I think of catlitter, but if it works for then fine,

m5eaygeoff wrote: well, I think you know what I think of catlitter, but if it works for then fine,

To be honest.. I am a little fed up with what people think about it. In the end the proof is in the pudding. And people that try find it suitable, either pure or mixed in.

As I said if it works for you fine, but I will quit growing trees before I use it