what's a rhododendrum?

Here are a few threads in the Azalea and Rhododendron forum related to pruning. Peruse them, and if you have any questions, they would probably be the best people to ask.

Rhododendrons are a type of woody shrub that has clusters of flowers in springtime. They are a common plant used in landscapes, due to their abundant flowers in spring and their evergreen glossy foliage. (Follow the link for more info).

-Audric

I'm not sure I'd prune anything in z5 now. You will stimulate new growth that won't have time to harden off.

Branch prune back to the source branch. The flower buds are at the ends of branches. If you carefully select the longest branches protruding past other foliage, you can substantially reduce the plant without altering the natural look of the plant. If the plant is good and healthy, there will be plenty of flower buds on the ends of the remaining branches.

DON'T SHEAR THEM!