How to prune augustine's rhododendron

Immediately after flowering (mid to late spring). Remove spent flower trusses cleanly above the uppermost leaf whorl. To thin the plant, cut selected stems back to a strong lateral or low dormant bud. Keep cuts clean and avoid leaving stubs.

Annually for deadheading; light thinning every 2-3 years. Augustine's rhododendron is a lax-growing, medium-sized flowering shrub that benefits from light pruning after bloom to maintain a tidy habit. Deadhead spent flower clusters to encourage vigorous new growth. Thin out crowded or inward-facing stems on established plants. Avoid pruning after midsummer, when next year's flower buds have already set.

Remove spent flower trusses cleanly above the uppermost leaf whorl. To thin the plant, cut selected stems back to a strong lateral or low dormant bud. Keep cuts clean and avoid leaving stubs.