How to Prune Roses
Pruning roses is a must for your plants health and beauty. Proper pruning promotes new growth, air circulation and prevents disease. In this guide we will walk you through how to prune roses.
When to Prune Roses
Pruning roses depends on the type of rose you have. For most roses the best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This is usually around February or March depending on your climate. Some roses like climbing roses may need to be pruned at different times of the year.
Tools Needed for Pruning Roses
Before you start pruning your roses you will need to gather your tools. These may include:
- Sharp pruning shears
- Long handled loppers
- Gloves
- Safety goggles
- Disinfectant spray
How to Prune Roses
- Remove any dead, diseased or damaged canes. Cut these back to healthy tissue, make clean cuts at a 45 degree angle.
- Remove any thin or weak canes and any canes that are crossing or rubbing against each other. This will improve air circulation and prevent disease.
- Cut back the remaining canes to about 18-24 inches, leaving at least 3-5 healthy outward facing buds on each cane. This will encourage new growth and flowering.
- Once you have finished pruning, clean up any debris around the base of the plant and get rid of it. Disinfect your tools with rubbing alcohol or a bleach solution to prevent the spread of disease.
Tips for Pruning Roses
- When pruning always make clean cuts at a 45 degree angle, just above a bud.
- Remove any suckers growing from the base of the plant, these are energy thieves and will not produce flowers.
- If you are unsure how to prune a specific type of rose, consult a gardening guide or ask a local nursery.
In conclusion, pruning roses is a simple but important task that will keep your plants healthy and blooming beautifully. Follow the steps in this guide and use the right tools and your roses will thrive year after year. Happy pruning! For more information on gardening visit our blog, or alternatively contact us today!
