How to prune azaleas? When and how to prune branches

Rhododendron pruning time

In order to enhance the ornamental value of azalea and promote flowering, excessive branches and leggy branches, buds, and other parts should be pruned every year. Azalea has strong vitality, so pruning can be done all year round, but it is best to do it in May, which is most conducive to the growth of azalea plants.

How to prune azalea

1. Trimming tools

Before pruning azaleas, you need to prepare pruning tools. Use gardening scissors specifically for pruning flower branches. Disinfect them in advance and also prepare a pair of gloves to protect your hands. Never break off branches with your bare hands, otherwise it will affect the plant tissue and growth.

2. Cut off the flower buds

After the azalea blooms, you can trim the remaining flowers to reduce nutrient consumption, grow more side branches and accelerate the formation of the skeleton. This way, more flowers will appear in the second bloom, which is conducive to the formation of the plant's flower shape in the future.

3. Cut off dead/disease branches

If dead and diseased branches appear during the growth of azalea, they should be cut off in time. If these dead and diseased branches are not cut off, they will consume the nutrients of the tree. Cutting them off will not only facilitate ventilation, but also make the azalea plants grow more beautiful.

4. Tie up weak branches

During the growth period of azalea, it is possible that the plant will appear thin but not withered. This is mainly due to inadequate maintenance and management. This problem can be solved by tying it with wire or by traditional thread tying.