When to prune azalea
Within about 4 weeks after flowers fade. Flower buds for next spring form by midsummer, so prune within a few weeks after bloom and before about early July.
| Type | shrub |
|---|---|
| Blooms on | old wood |
| Bloom season | spring |
| When to prune | Within about 4 weeks after flowers fade |
| Stop | No heavy pruning in the 6–8 weeks before your first fall frost |
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Avoid
Pruning after midsummer removes next year's flowers.
Also
Encore/reblooming types: right after the spring flush.
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Sources
- Clemson Cooperative Extension HGIC: Azalea
- University of Georgia Extension: B961: Pruning Ornamental Plants in the Landscape
- Clemson Cooperative Extension HGIC: Pruning Shrubs
Summarized in our own words from public extension publications.
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