Pruning Overgrown Holly and Azaleas for Shape and Health

New homeowner with two large hollies (likely male/female) and misshapen azaleas. Hollies: tangled base, dead leaves, one has bald spot with dead branches. Azaleas: unkept, dead branches on one side, flowers only on other side.

Holly Pruning

1. Cut all dead branches flush to trunk.
2. Cut sparse-growth branches back by ⅓ to stimulate new growth.
3. Hollies regrow readily.

Azalea Pruning

1. Same approach: remove dead, cut back weak growth by ⅓.
2. Regrow slower than holly; may take time.
3. Accept natural shapes—wild azaleas aren't neat.

Root Cause

Both likely had neighboring plants blocking light. Opening the canopy helps.

Expert's rhododendron grows at odd angles but blooms beautifully—natural form has merit.