The best way to avoid over-fertilizing your azaleas is to have your soil tested every 2 or 3 years and follow the recommendations. In many cases, these are very good for azaleas. Many nurserymen have gotten excellent results with fertilizers containing two parts nitrogen to one part phosphorus and one part potassium, especially when part of the nitrogen is in slow-release form. If your soil fertility is high, you only need to use nitrogen. Pruning Azaleas can be pruned without damaging the plant and without interfering with future flower production.
Nurserymen begin pruning when the plants are small to create a compact, branching growth habit.
In Alabama many azaleas begin to set flower buds in July. Therefore, pruning after early July may reduce the next year's flower production. The best time to prune is soon after the flowering period in the spring. Cut out the limbs that have grown out of the main body of the plant. Do not shear unless your intention is to create a formal hedge, spalier, or topiary plant.