When and how is it done?

Do you even have to cut Japanese azaleas?

Basically, Japanese azaleas do not have to be pruned and should be left alone, especially with young plants. In the case of older, established specimens, however, pruning makes sense to prevent the plant from shedding. Such a rejuvenation cut ensures strong new shoots, a more bushy growth and numerous flowers. Make the cut before flowering between mid and late April and reduce the shrub significantly. At best, spread the pruning measures over a period of two to three years, then they will be better tolerated.

Cut tolerance depends on the variety

Japanese azaleas are considered to be well tolerated by cutting, but this applies to different degrees to the different varieties. You should therefore play it safe as far as possible and do not undertake major pruning measures at once. Instead, spread them out over several years.

How to cut Japanese azaleas correctly

In contrast to many other flowering shrubs, the Japanese azalea also drifts out of the sleeping eyes old wood, which is why a necessary radical pruning is usually not a problem should. Usually it is sufficient to have long shoots and dead ones every year or diseased branches to remove. Thinning out is also useful from time to time. for a taper cut, however, proceed as follows:

• Do the pruning in spring or autumn.
• Spread it out over a period of two to three years.
• First, cut some of the shoots back to about 30 to 50 centimeters above the ground.
• In the following year, cut the remaining shoots in the same way.

When does a radical cut make sense?

Radical pruning is always useful when the plant is threatened with balding, has many dead or dry branches or does not want to bloom properly. Even with fungal infections, a hearty pruning can be the only way to save.