Rose Pruning 101: Why We Prune Roses?

Why do we prune roses? The primary reason is for aesthetics. We want them to be beautiful plants that will add to the enjoyment of our landscape. We want them to stay a certain size. We want them to produce many blooms or larger blooms. But pruning also encourages a healthier and more vigorous plant. It can help reduce damage to canes and removes crowded or compromised canes to help discourage disease.
 
Although there are different techniques for different types of roses, any rose pruning should follow the following guidelines:

• Rose bushes less than three years old should be pruned sparingly to help them become established. Preserve as many leaves as possible when pruning.
• Remove dead, broken or diseased canes. Then remove any crossing or congested growth. Older, non-productive canes can be removed. The goal is to open up the center of the plant for better air circulation and sunlight penetration.
• Remove any growth smaller in diameter than a pencil, since it will never be vigorous enough to support good bloom. (Note: Some roses naturally have more small, twiggy growth, in which case this rule is less important. This is why you should get to know your rose.)
• Pruning cuts should be made 1⁄4 inch above a bud that is pointed in the direction of desired growth. The angle of the cut is not so important as making sure you do not damage the bud below. Make the cut as cleanly as possible.
• Remove about one-third of the overall height of main canes or prune to about one foot lower than desired ultimate height. Optimal pruning height to produce the most blooms is about 30-36”. If pruned shorter, it usually results in fewer, but larger blooms. Larger blooms are desirable for those exhibiting in rose competitions.
• After pruning, clean up. Remove dead leaves from the canes and dispose of them, as well as any other pruning litter. This may help control disease organisms, such as fungal spores, that may overwinter on dead foliage.

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