How to Prune Rose Bushes
Prune right after the last frost., Prune when the buds have begun to swell., Prune according to the type of rose you have.
Step-by-Step Guide
-
Step 1: Prune right after the last frost.
Depending on where you live, this might be late January or February, or it could be some time in early spring.
Pruning just after the last frost of the season is the best time to clear away dead or diseased rose canes (stems).
Since you waited until there's no chance another frost will happen, the rosebush won't get damaged by harsh temperatures or ice. -
Step 2: Prune when the buds have begun to swell.
This is an indicator that the bush is ready to be pruned.
When the buds have just begun to swell, you'll be able to prune effectively without causing any damage.
Check the stems for signs of leaf bud growth.
If you haven't seen any new growth since the fall, and you don't see tiny new swells, wait a few more weeks before pruning.
The buds should also turn redder in color as they swell, another sign the bush is ready for pruning. , Some roses actually need to be pruned after they bloom, rather than while they are still dormant.
While it probably won't damage the rosebush to prune it at a different time of year, you won't get the results you're looking for.
If you don't know what rose variety you have, look for these signs that may indicate when to prune your rosebush:
If the rosebush produces new growth in the spring, and the blooms come from this new growth, that means the rosebush should be pruned while it's dormant, right when the buds have begun to swell.
Wait until next spring to prune.
If the rosebush blooms come straight from the old canes, rather than from new growth, the bush should be pruned after it flowers instead. -
Step 3: Prune according to the type of rose you have.
Detailed Guide
Depending on where you live, this might be late January or February, or it could be some time in early spring.
Pruning just after the last frost of the season is the best time to clear away dead or diseased rose canes (stems).
Since you waited until there's no chance another frost will happen, the rosebush won't get damaged by harsh temperatures or ice.
This is an indicator that the bush is ready to be pruned.
When the buds have just begun to swell, you'll be able to prune effectively without causing any damage.
Check the stems for signs of leaf bud growth.
If you haven't seen any new growth since the fall, and you don't see tiny new swells, wait a few more weeks before pruning.
The buds should also turn redder in color as they swell, another sign the bush is ready for pruning. , Some roses actually need to be pruned after they bloom, rather than while they are still dormant.
While it probably won't damage the rosebush to prune it at a different time of year, you won't get the results you're looking for.
If you don't know what rose variety you have, look for these signs that may indicate when to prune your rosebush:
If the rosebush produces new growth in the spring, and the blooms come from this new growth, that means the rosebush should be pruned while it's dormant, right when the buds have begun to swell.
Wait until next spring to prune.
If the rosebush blooms come straight from the old canes, rather than from new growth, the bush should be pruned after it flowers instead.
About the Author
Kevin Hart
Specializes in breaking down complex practical skills topics into simple steps.
Rate This Guide
How helpful was this guide? Click to rate: