The idea in pruning an azalea for general health rather than just size is to remove any branches that do not aim out or up or both up and out. Remove all branches that are growing inward. Prune so that branches don't cross each other. The purpose is to open up the plant to get air moving through it. You can also prune for size by reducing the height or width. To avoid removing flower buds, prune shortly after they finish blooming in the spring.

Not clear about the bottom branches being a problem. I grow my peppers in pots and repot several times from germination to final potting. Each time I repot I plant deeper to avoid legginess and get more sturdy plants. This often involves removing lower branches to plant deeper. I haven't had a problem with new lower branches. Some varieties. especially some of the baccatums, which tend to be tall and gangly, I also pinch out the growing tip to encourage bushiness. Pepper branches tend to be brittle and when loaded with fruit are easily broken. I end up staking many plants to avoid wind damage. I had about 200 pots last year and yes it is extra work. Usually a single stick next to the main stem is sufficient. JohnF

You'll need to start with better pictures. Stand in line with the center of the double window in the brick section of wall, about 25' or 30' away from it. Take a series of slightly overlapping pictures that show part of the garage all the way to the right-side neighbor's house. Post the pictures individually (not as a computer generated panorama.) The front walk is too narrow and you might consider widening it. You could do by adding a brick soldier course to each side, which would add 16" additional width.

Brian, hello))) Looks like your tress are still very amazing!!! Despite all that you are going through, your trees never seem to suffer..Great job buddy! By the way, you said something about 'salt water' in your pool? Why that? I never heard of salt water in a pool...I would love to come for a swim.. My parents are not doing so well so that is taking up much of my time, but every once in a while I get to pop in...I always wonder how you are doing and I keep telling myself to e-mail you and Cory..I am always thinking of you all and Maggy too...Everyone disappeared for a while and it was only me left but it's been nice to meet so many new ones here..I am so glad to see you posting your beautiful pics again Brian and to see your writings once again that always make me smile. I see your weather is HOT? Not here. It's weird..So far we are having the coolest summer for July and we are just getting out of the 50's for that past 3 days..Crazy. Only two 90 days since spring and summer began but it looks like summer will finally move in at least for a week so my trees are slow to grow as usual(( I guess at least they are healthy) I wanted to pop by to say hello to you and to Cory in which I have been doing for quite some time but it seems she never sees that ask for her or comment on her beautiful postings... Have a wonderful night and you take good care... Laura...Beautiful job and lots of courage..I see what you mean but you could not of picked the best time of season to do it. It should bounce right back in lots of new branches and leaves..Many here defoliate their trees to encourage new growth and it seems to do a great job at it! Good luck with it and please keep us updated every inch of the way) MIke