The Japanese azalea is closely related to the rhododendron - it is actually a rhododendron hybrid - but remains significantly smaller. For this reason, regular pruning to limit size is basically not necessary; unless you keep the plant in a container.
A pruning of the Japanese azalea only makes sense for bonsai or older plants
Do you have to prune Japanese azaleas at all?
In principle, Japanese azaleas do not have to be cut back and should be left alone, especially with young plants. With older, established specimens, however, a pruning makes sense to protect the plant from bare. Such a rejuvenating pruning ensures strong new growth, bushier growth and numerous flowers. Perform pre-flowering pruning between mid and late April, significantly reducing the shrub. At best, spread the pruning measures over a period of two to three years, then they will be better tolerated.
Tolerance to cutting depends on the variety
Although Japanese azaleas are considered to be well tolerated by pruning, this applies to different degrees to the different varieties. Therefore, play it safe if possible and do not carry out major cutting measures all at once. Instead, spread them out over several years.
Cut Japanese Azalea correctly
In contrast to many other flowering shrubs, the Japanese azalea also sprout from the dormant eyes in the old wood, which is why a necessary radical pruning should not usually pose a problem. It is usually sufficient to remove shoots that are too long and dead or diseased branches every year. Thinning out is also useful from time to time. for a taper cut, on the other hand, proceed as follows:
- Cut back in spring or fall.
- Spread it out over a two to three year period.
- First cut back part of the shoots to about 30 to 50 centimeters above the ground.
- The following year, cut the remaining shoots in the same way.
When does a radical cut make sense?
A radical pruning always makes sense when the plant threatens to become bare, has many dead or dry branches or no longer really wants to bloom. Even with fungal infections, a hearty pruning can be the only way of rescue.
tips
If you do not want to collect seeds, you should remove faded flowers in good time. But be careful: a new branch will grow out of the flowering stem at the same time, which you should of course not damage.