Pruning garden roses

Research at rose test gardens indicates that hybrid teas, floribundas, polyanthas and grandifloras pruned in March rather than in the fall tend to produce more flowers during the summer. Prune climbing roses immediately after flowering so you don't remove the flower buds for the following year.

Some fundamental pruning practices pertain to all garden roses. When you plant bare root roses, cut the tops back to 12 to 15 inches. (Frequently this has already been done before you buy them). Prune any broken or damaged roots. With potted roses, these two practices are generally taken care of before you buy the plants.

Because of the severity of northern winters, canes are frequently killed to the soil or mulch line. It is then a very simple practice to cut them back by removing all of this dead or damaged wood (Fig. 30). Canes damaged on only one side should also be removed--the damaged area will affect the growth of new shoots.

Other rose pruning practices include removing any broken canes or canes damaged by insects or diseases, removing one of the two canes that criss-cross and may be rubbing, and removing canes that are spindly or smaller in diameter than a pencil.

After pruning according to these general recommendations, hybrid teas, floribundas and grandifloras should be cut to a height of 18 to 24 inches (Fig. 31).

Prune climbing roses in accordance with basic pruning practices. In addition, remove any very old, heavy canes growing in the center of the plant that are not producing many leaves or flowers. The newer canes will produce more growth and flowers. The canes may become quite long, so it will be necessary to prune them back to keep the plant confined to the allotted area (Fig. 32). Climbing roses bloom on the previous year's wood. If the previous year's wood is removed, they will produce no flowers. When planting a climber, allow enough space for its growth or be prepared for continual pruning.

When pruning roses, cut back to just above a bud that is pointing toward the outside of the plant. Keep pruners sharp so they make clean cuts.