Pruning Azaleas and Hydrangeas: Timing Matters for Flowers

Q: Latest I can severely trim azaleas and hydrangeas without killing them in winter?

A: Pruning now is problematic. Azaleas have finished making next spring's flower buds at branch tips—pruning now means no April flowers. Hydrangeas are similar. If you must prune, wait until after first frost. Pruning won't kill shrubs but don't expect many flowers if pruned in fall or winter.