As with all bonsai, it is necessary to reduce the number of new shoots at the tip of a branch to just two, so that each branch divides into just two smaller parts. google_ad_height = 90;
Note that unlike the majority of tree species that are apically-dominant, Azalea are basally-dominant, that is, the lower branches are stronger and more vigorous than those higher up on the tree. These shoots do not need removing and are of a good size with short internodes (distance between the leaves along each shoot) and do not need shortening. ©Harry Harrington 2019. Use of Text or Images contained within this website is strictly prohibited without the express permission of Harry Harrington. Pruning. //-->. Every other spring (March-May) your bonsai will need its roots pruned. Remove spent flowers as soon as they wilt and any new shoots that develop after blooming ends. The new Bonsai Book for 2019 by Harry Harrington. Two new 'well-haved' new shoots growing from a single point on the tip of a branch. To prune, pinch out ends of new growth that occurs after the blooming season. Also note that although totally bare branches will often bud out, it is much safer to ensure that each shoot/branch is left with at least 2 leaves at its tip after pruning. The 'whorl' of new shoots at the tip of this lower branch is typical of vigorous growth on Azalea bonsai of all kinds. The branch in the image above has grown outside the foliage mass and needs to be shortened back. Then, any secondary shoots should be pruned in midsummer. (See also Azalea Care Calendar),