Pruning Roses

Steps for pruning roses in the Spring:

1. Remove the dead canes.

2. Prune to the tallest living bud to find the height (usually half the original height), then prune to shape.

3. Prune out any rubbing canes.

4. Remove thinner/weaker stems.

Climbing Roses

1. Remove all but 5-6 canes.

2. To find the height, prune only the dead off the remaining canes. This may require waiting until the leaves fully emerge.

Roses require airflow to prevent disease. This method may seem too aggressive, but it really maximizes a rose's energy by directing it to live and productive areas.