Q.Can I Prune (lightly) My Azaleas Now?
My gumpo azaleas and encore azaleas are in desperate need of some pruning; but the encores are just starting to bloom again, and the gumpos have tiny little buds already for their once-a-year- spring bloom. If I were to do a little light pruning now, I know that I would obviously sacrifice some buds / blooms; but will I put the plants into shock so they will stop blooming altogether for now (the encores) or not bloom at all this year (the gumpos) ?
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
You could do some cleanup like removing broken, dead, or crossing branches. That should help. You could be a little more daring on the encores, but It would be best to wait on the Gumpos. The best time to trim Encores is right after the first spring bloom.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/azalea/pruning-azaleas.htm
