How would I prune this azalea?

[margaritasbythesea]

I've taken over this garden recently but according to my gardening book, I missed the pruning season last year. It says you should prune them after flowering so it is coming up.

My proven is that I really dislike the globe shape it's in. I'd like to open it out so it looks a bit more natural but as it's a really healthy plant I don't want to damage it. I really have no experience either.

It's the bright pink one by the way. The globe shaped purplish thing in front of it is an Acer which has suddenly plumped out.

Tips would be gratefully received.

I have no idea but, wow, that’s a big azalea! I have one (inherited with the garden as I am a complete novice) and mine is more of a groundcover. I didn’t know they got so bushy.

I wouldn’t prune it al all, it’s not a natural shape, I agree, probably the result of pruning. If you leave it alone it will soon sent out stems in different directions and look more natural.

Agree with Beebemble, I wouldn't prune it. Don't expect a transformation, gardening is a slow process.

I wouldn't prune it this year. Have you thought about taking a couple of the lowest branches off of the acer just so you can see a small amount of trunk? I think it would look stunning. Just an idea.

Only a tiny amount not whole branches.

Ok. Thanks I will leave it and let it sprout. We're in West Wales and azaleas do amazingly well here.

I am going to get to grips with the Acer. It was all tendrily and beautiful and then it started raining and it puffed up like a marshmallow!