The first day of spring has come and gone, and with it we got a few days of splendid weather. Although it was tempting, pruning my roses needs to be held off for a few more weeks. April 15, to be exact. I got my clipping shears out and gave them a good cleaning so I'll be ready when the big day comes.
I also checked my supply of systemic rose care and mulch. I use a dual-type rose care that helps keep my roses healthy by feeding them fertilizer for six to eight weeks. The second important part of the product is a bug killer that when absorbed into the bush will prevent those nasty aphids, thrips, mites and grasshoppers from eating the tender leaves.
The mulch I use is a combination of moss, shredded bark and other organic material. I mix some of the mulch into the top 2 to 3 inches of soil when I apply the systemic rose care. Then I apply an extra 3 inches or so in a layer to help hold in moisture after I water while building up the soil. This will help the ground from getting compacted and keep the roots cool.
When April 15 rolls around, it's important to take your time pruning your rose bush. My roses have several new leaf buds forming on the branches. And though it is tempting to start pruning them now, I really do need to wait. We still have a few more cold days and nights to suffer through, and cutting now would do more harm than good. But I will be ready when the time comes.
I prefer to have a V shape to my rose shrubs. which means choosing my cuts carefully. Look at which way the new bud is facing and cut just above one of the buds that is facing outward. Cut at a angle or slant. Be sure to make a clean cut. Having sharp pruning shears is a must.
Do not cut more than one-third of the total height of the shrub. If you cut off any more than that, you could end up damaging the shrub's strength. Be sure to trim off any dead or damaged branches and thin the branches from the inside of the bush. A good V shape will allow you to grow several strong long-stemmed roses, just perfect for a beautiful flower arrangement.
Also thin the inside of the shrub to keep branch over-crowding to a minimum. When branches rub together, it causes skin or bark damage, which then allows bugs and disease to take hold, ultimately harming the overall health of the rose bush.
This type of pruning, of course, does not apply to climbing roses. When you prune climbing roses, you are working more toward control of the plant. Cutting back to prevent unruliness and overgrowth is a must, but again, choose your cuttings wisely. Unnecessary or over pruning can do more harm than good.
On April 15, I'll be in my garden. Where will you be?
Mickey Claus works at Community Roots Nursery, Landscaping and Maintenance. The Dayton-based business donates one-third of its profits to programs for area youth
