pruning rhododendrons

[hjburton]

I have 2 rhododendrons in pots.They are getting too big but I can,t get them out without breaking the pots(,which are large)Someone told me that I could prune them after flowering next year,but I,m doubtful.Does anyone know if this is a good idea? thanks

[Thunderbird+]

Hi hjburton, Firstly take great care not to disturb the roots too much when you transplant,as they hate root disturbance. Prepare the hole well and incorporate plenty of ericacious compost to ensure a good start.

Its a good idea to remove any spent flowers or seed heads, now to encourage more flowers next year, this can be easily done by hand, by giving it a twist as you pull it away.

They dont usually require much pruning, just to keep it to the size and shape you want really but if you do need to prune, avoid doing it in the autumn otherwise it may produce soft growth that will be damaged by frost.
Anything that does need to be pruned ie wayward shoots, weak growth, or frost damaged shoots etc are is best done in april to may. Good Luck Tbird+

[skylight]

Hi hjburton, Just to add to Tbird's expert info. If you really have to prune Rhodos you may find that you loose the following seasons flowers but will return to normal flowering after.Cheers skylight

[hjburton]

thanks tbird and skylight.will be out with secateurs next year!and hope for the best

[Robinia]

I had a rhodo in a tub that had become very leggy so I pruned it back hard, kept it fed & watered & 'had a word' with it. After missing a flowering season last year it's rewarded me this year by growing healthily and has flowered twice!

[hjburton]

thanks robinia I will definitely be pruning it after flowering.fingers crossed!

[Thunderbird+]

Hi hjburton, Just to give a little further reassurance re pruning and the plants resilience.
In a local woods near me which is a nature reserve,Rhododenron is regarded as an invasive alien weed species from the hymalayas that flouishes but to the expence of native flora. It is regularly cut down by the local wildlife trust to keep it under control but the stump and roots have to be winched out to stop them from sprouting, and even after that the stumps are then turned upside down to prevent them from regrowing on the forest floor( this is a vigorous wild form by the way R ponticum) So to cut to the chase, yes it should flower again if you give it a 'good hair cut'..eventually. regards Tbird+

[hjburton]

thanks again