How to Prune a Miniature Rhododendron
- 1). Prune the branches from the lower third of a 3-foot miniature rhododendron with pruning shears to reveal the twisting trunk. Removing these branches will focus the plant's energy in the upper branches and allow them to grow more vigorously. By promoting growth in the upper branches, your miniature rhododendron will have the appearance of a small tree.
- 2). Trim the top third of your miniature rhododendron to create a smaller, compact plant and force the interior branches to grow thick and full. Each branch has several whorls of leaves, spaced a few inches apart. Cut each branch just above the leaf group you wish to keep, which will help the plant develop a graceful, irregular shape.
- 3). Snip away dead or wilting branches as you go. Branches can wilt if they cross and rub together, which injures the bark. Prune to correct this condition. Examine deadwood before discarding for signs of insect infestation or disease.
- 4). Trim away interior shoots with pruning shears to create a bonsai effect with your miniature rhododendron. Pinch away new shoots as they appear, as this will allow more light and air to reach the interior of the plant and stimulate new growth.