Question
I received this Azalea plant for Valentine. It is getting new growth on the lower pare of the trunk. Do I strip this growth off or just let it grow. It seems to be doing OK other wise.

Answer
Hi Delores,

A photo would be helpful as braided Azalea trees are grown in many different styles and I cannot be sure just what you have.

In general, these trees are grown as topiaries, meaning the have been pruned to a specific shape. The only way to maintain that shape is to prune off all new growth as it emerges at the ends of stems. Do not remove an entire stem, just the ends of any stems that are growing outside the original shape.

This pruning will have no effect on the health of your Azalea, but it will affect the way that it looks. If you prefer to have it grow out in certain places, that is youir choice. However, the growers usually have a specific shape in mind that looks best.

I have written detailed articles on pruning and on Azalea care that I will email for free to you (or anyone else) who emails a request to me at [email protected]. I have also written an indoor plant care book in a PDF format that I can sell you if you contact me at my email address.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

Visit my website at: A link to HorticulturalHelp.com