The purpose of pruning is to make plants grow, thrive and produce as you desire. Spring is the time for major pruning, while your rose plants are semi-dormant. Always use sharp tools. Make a diagonal cut, 1/4 inch above and outward facing bud with the high side of the cut on the bud side. Prune so the center of the bush is open.
Illustration by Cameron County Master Gardener
• Grab some good gloves and sharp pruners
Grab some good gloves and sharp pruners.
• Cut away stems that are too close to the ground, are rubbing together or overcrowded
Cut away stems that are too close to the ground, are rubbing together or overcrowded. Get rid of any stems that are weak or spindly. Cut back any that are diseased or dead to healthy white pith and green stem.
• Pruning hybrid tea roses or Floribundas begins early
Pruning the most common hybrid tea roses or Floribundas begins early in the season. As each rose stem grows, flowers and then dies, prune it back to renew the growth for next year. New wood originates at the bottom of the shrub and replaces old wood over time as you cut it away.
• Prune to preserve both old and new stems
Hybrid tea roses produce long-stemmed, large blossoms throughout the growing season. If you prune it drastically, you will find fewer flowers, later blossoms and a smaller plant. Shorten thick stems to 12-inches or more. Occasionally cut away a stem at its base to stimulate new growth.
• Throughout the summer, check your roses and remove flowers
Throughout the summer, check your roses and remove flowers. If you like cut flowers in the house, cut them just as the petals begin to open up. Otherwise, cut them right after they fade. This will channel the energy to the flowers that are still growing.
• Apply rose food fertilizer
Apply rose food fertilizer such as Espoma Rose-Tone or Bonide Systemic Rose & Flower Care as per manufacturer recommendations to ensure healthy growth and vigorous blooms.
Chihuly floribunda rose
The experts at Gertens are always available to answer your questions!
