DebraW
Newly Registered
Posts: 3
Joined: Sun Mar 27, 2011 6:14 pm
Location: Massachusetts

Holly and Azaleas

Hi, I live in MA and my holly and azalea bushes have taken a beating this winter with all the heavy snow. My holly has become very leggy over the last few years in addition to having many broken branches this winter. I'm wondering if I can cut them way back this spring without totally damaging them.

Thanks so much

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Pineville
Senior Member
Posts: 102
Joined: Sat Dec 19, 2009 5:50 pm
Location: Bucks County, PA

Blue Holly, China Holly, Inkberry Holly, and American Holly respond well to aggressive pruning. The Azaleas should do ok if you prune them hard. It may take a growing season or two before they look good again.

bullthistle
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Posts: 1152
Joined: Sun Feb 24, 2008 10:26 am
Location: North Carolina

And don't forget to give them a good dose of acid loving fertilizer after shearing and it might be a great time to transplant if needed.



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