When and how do I trim Azaleas?

Answer 1

You are safe to trim them anytime temperatures are below 80. When temps are above 80 plants are stressed & you take your chances possibly causing some damage. The easiest way I know is with hedge trimmers, then go back with pruners to trim off any dead or ugly cut ends showing. If you want a very natural look to them, use pruners only.

Answer 2

Okay, you should always prune right after they are done blooming. Just like with Lilacs. Also, you can then cut out any dead or sickly branches. After you do that, I would look closely at the plant and determine what could be removed to improve on its shape. Oh, and they are done blooming usually around June or July. Also, remember that you generally don't want to ever trim a plant back more than 25%-33% at a time. It is too hard on it.

A couple other tips for you:
- Don't fertilize while flowering. They don't like this.
- Use a acid-type fert at 1/4-1/2 strength only after you see new growth. Then, over about a four month period gradually increase the levels to the recommended amount.

Here is a good article on Azalea care:

http://landscaping.about.com/cs/treesshrubs/a/rhodo_azaleas.htm

This one is for Azaleas as houseplants:

http://www.yoderbrothers.com/retailer/azaleas/care/content.asp

I've checked my notes against these sites and they each have parts where they agree, so you don't have to check them out, but I recommend it. Hope this helps!

Answer 3

agree with Japhiel, after blooming, remove dead wood, and no more than 1/3 of green wood.

Branches will root on the ground (while still attached to the mother plant) by putting a brick on them. have fun

Answer 4

Cut them back in the fall of the year.........about 12"