How Do You Prune Rhododendrons in the Spring

Shaping is most easily done in late winter, while the plant is dormant. Although this sacrifices some of the flower buds, it ensures a complete growing season for the new stems that emerge. To shape a rhododendron, follow the branch down to the last whorl of leaves you want to keep, and cut just above those leaves.

What time of year do you cut back rhododendrons?

Shaping is most easily done in late winter, while the plant is dormant. Although this sacrifices some of the flower buds, it ensures a complete growing season for the new stems that emerge. To shape a rhododendron, follow the branch down to the last whorl of leaves you want to keep, and cut just above those leaves.

How far back can I trim rhododendrons?

Depending on how big the rhododendron is, you may be able to cut back 15 to 20 inches of each branch of the plant. Because the rhododendron species are not meant to be cut in a shape, each primary branch that you cut should be cut at different heights to make the shrub appear natural.

James H. Sterling

James H. Sterling

Environmental Science & Climate Journalist

James Sterling reports on renewable energy developments, climate policy, ecological conservation, and green tech innovations around the globe.

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