I agree with Paul, the best timing for a severe pruning is just as flowering finishes. There are a number of things home gardeners can do to keep rhodies and azaleas long-lived and healthy, according to Jan McNeilan, retired horticulturist with Oregon State University Extension Service. Sometimes large, long-established rhododendrons have to be moved. January: Order seeds for starting indoors in a few weeks or outdoors in a few months. Prepare an indoor area for starting seeds. Rhododendrons are extremely resilient plants, and your rhododendron will survive and grow back, but don’t … Winter rhodies and pruning conifers Originally published January 17, 2013 at 5:30 am Updated January 17, 2013 at 7:31 am Rhododendron ‘Christmas Cheer’ is a variety that blooms in winter. As dotty says, they do take pruning pretty well. February: Start seeds of annuals indoors for transplanting in spring. Other pruning I did was to pinch out new growth (after they bloomed) where I didn't want them advancing (like into the turnaround parking area). The how to prune and when to prune are more important than how much to prune, when it comes to Rhododendron Plants. The first year, cut 1/3 of the rhodie way down. The roots are cut back (pruned) with a sharp shovel, leaving a wide but shallow pad of roots and soil. You can tell us about news and ask us about our journalism by emailing newstips@heraldnet.com or by calling 425-339-3428.; If you have an … It is too early to prune hardy fuchsia, tender plants like escallonia, lavender and jasmine, and keep your clippers away from spring blooming rhodies, azaleas and camellias. Pruning to facilitate moving. Pruning … Rhododendrons (Rhododendron spp.) Order pick-up available from 9am-6pm daily. This is a sizeable but relatively simple job. Pruning Rhododendrons Rhododendrons can be pruned as much or as little as you like. I've read that if you really want to downsize them, to do it 1/3 at a time. have an attractive, natural shape that may lead you to believe they don't need regular pruning. For best results, it should be done in the fall or in early spring before new growth begins. Most pruning of large flowered Rhodys should be done in the early spring at blooming time. I have cut rhodies almost to leafless stumps at that time, cutting above a plump dormant bud on each limb. AURORA - Rhododendrons and azaleas herald spring in Oregon. Swansons Nursery, 9701 15th Ave NW, Seattle, WA, 98117, United States 206-782-2543 garden@swansonsnursery.com Swansons Hours: On-site shopping by reservation only. You can prune in early spring or late winter to discourage your plant from producing as many flowers, and encourage it to put its energy into growing new branches and leaves. And spring is a good time to give these beautiful shrubs the care they deserve. Talk to us. 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