How far back can you cut overgrown azaleas

Pruning azaleas is usually not necessary, but there are times when the thoughtful use of pruners enhances the appearance of these beautiful flowering shrubs, promotes healthy growth, and results in more flowers.

There are several pruning strategies to keep your azaleas in top form.

When and how to prune azaleas and rhododendrons

These include removing damaged and diseased branches, maintaining the desired shape and size, and promoting good air circulation with selective cuts, and—when necessary—rejuvenating an old, overgrown plant.

For these azalea pruning objectives, timing is critical; prune at the wrong time, and you may eliminate your flower show the following year.

Use this guide to learn when and how to prune azaleas properly.

Pruning Different Types of Azaleas

Deciduous and evergreen azaleas are all species in the Rhododendron genus, but they differ somewhat in how they are pruned.

Deciduous Azaleas

Deciduous azaleas, many of which are native to North America, have open, informal habits that are well suited to woodland gardens and informal land

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