Pruning Back a Large Rhododendron

Question

(Virginia) We have a large rhododendron which has a number of sizable, vertical branches that are leafless below 4 to 5 feet; above this there is lots of foliage, which has just finished blooming. There is some new growth pushing up from the bottom of the plant. If I cut the main branches back to 12-15 inches, should the plant survive the shock of being cut back?

Answer 1

You should be ok cutting back by 12-15". The general rule of thumb is not to cut back by more than 1/3 in one season.