Collect seeds from really nice blooming deciduous Azaleas and put the seeds in trays. Grow them up to blooming size and select from there. That's what I did. Fall color and mildew resistance are two other factors to consider when selecting.

Looks like you're going to have a bloom this year!

You mention you gave up on starting evergreen Azaleas from seed because you want to be alive when they bloom. Did you know they start rather easy from cuttings and bloom almost right away? If you don't remove the buds, even cuttings will bloom. I usually remove the buds though, because they root easier.
Mike.....67

{{gwi:259538}}

Here is a link that might be useful: My garden.....and travels.