When is the best time to cut back or trim azalea plants?

The ideal time to trim azalea plants is after they have finished blooming in the spring. Trimming after mid-summer can prevent next year's flowers from blooming.

Use a pair of hand clippers to cut off dead or damaged branches. Then cut the tall, sparse limbs from the top of the shrub. This allows sunlight and air to circulate through the shrub and gives it a more attractive shape. Using sharp tools ensures precise, clean cuts. Some pruning shears and clippers come with replacement blades; otherwise, use a file designed specifically for sharpening blades of cutting tools to sharpen the clippers.