I have a laceleaf Japanese Maple that the previous homeowner underplanted with Azaleas. Since we moved in 7 years ago, it has grown to be approximately 6-8 wide and around 5 feet tall. It looks great and is doing well.

Underplanted are Azaleas which I love but are now 1/2 under the maple canopy and getting in the way of the maple (they are around 4' tall).

What should I do about this?
- Move the Azaleas - If so, will this damage the Maple?
- Just cut back the Azaleas and let them die (thus not disturbing the Maple roots
- Prune the maple every year to prevent the crowding - Somehow this doesn't seem the best option

Thanks!