Phisherman wrote in message . ..
There is an established azalea (blooms white) that has grown into a
lace-leaf maple tree. Both are over 10 years old and the tree is 4
feet tall. The azalea has just finished dropping its spent flowers
and I want to move it to another location to give the tree and azalea
more room. The summers here are hot and long, often with a drought in
July. When/how should the azalea be moved to increase chances of
survival? In zone 7, east TN. Thanks.

Before buds swell in the spring would be ideal.
If you have to move it after that try doing it during a week of rain,
providing shade, using anti-transpirant.
Late season moving in the fall may work but here in zone 6 it gets
iffy.
In any case get a good root mat with the plant and don't let them dry
for a minute.
Consider root pruning around the plant now to develop a fibrous root
system closer to the plant.