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Azalea & Rhododendron

When to prune rhodies.

15 years ago

I've got 2 very healthy, clear-pink rhododendrons that just finished their flowering(I dead-headed them two days ago). They are about 5 feet tall right now and I don't want them to get any higher.

When should I prune them? And is there a trick as to HOW to prune them so they don't look like I simply took shears to the top layers?

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Comment (1)

bbfan10
15 years ago
I would think pinching off the NEW growth (right from where this year's growth meets last year's growth) in the highest areas of the bush would do well. This way, instead of the plant sending out a lot of growth on a few branches, it can branch out from dormant buds and make a fuller bush. There will be less length on more branches. (If that makes sense... :3) I happen to love this site for pruning my rhodies.

Here is a link that might be useful: 3 Ways to Prune Rhododendrons
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