Pruning Azaleas: Timing for Next Year's Blooms

Q: Rain kept me out of the garden—is it too late to prune azaleas?

A: Pruning now removes most flower buds for next spring. Check branch tips: that tight bud is next year's flower. You can remove the tallest, most objectionable branches now, then do heavier pruning right after flowering next spring. You'll still get a decent show, though not a full canopy of blooms.