As a general rule, if a plant is healthy and able to withstand hard pruning, the harder the shoots are pruned the more vigorously the new canes will grow. Light pruning promotes less vigorous and more limited new growth.
Use strong, sharp pruning shears to make a clean cut with no ragged edges. Cut no more than 1/4 inch above an outside-facing eye or growth bud. Angle the cut so that it slopes back slightly and away from the bud to allow moisture to drain away. These rules apply to all roses except those being trained to grow along a support and prostrate types.
When removing a complete stem, cut as close as possible to the parent stem, than trim the stump flush with the stem, using a sharp knife. Cut thick stems with loppers for a good, clean cut. For old hardwood use a narrow-bladed pruning saw.
When thinning out wood cut back to the next branch, creating a more natural appearance. This avoids numerous stubs, which give the plant a butchered look and invite disease.
Newly Planted Roses
Prune newly planted roses immediately, unless planted in the fall. If planted in fall wait until spring. Prune according to type. In addition cut out dead or weak wood and stems that rub or cross.
- Hybrid roses and grandifloras: Prune hard, four inches from the ground.
- Floribundas: Prune five to six inches from the ground.
- Species Roses: Prune moderately; they bloom on wood produced in the previous season.
- Climbers/ramblers/old and modern shrubs: Prune moderately.
- Polyanthas/miniatures: Cut back polyanthas by one third. Minis are pruned to two inches off the ground.
