Pruned & Ready? Top tips on pruning bush and shrub Roses

Unless you got a head start last month, it's time to start pruning bush and shrub roses ready for the years growth. Climbing roses should have been pruned in the autumn so they can be tidied up and tied before the winter storms blow them around.

Never prune rambling roses in the spring unless they are in drastic need of renovation as you will loose this years flowers. Always prune them after flowering!

The main purpose of pruning roses is to build up a healthy framework of shoots that give a great display of flowers. Thinning overcrowded growth lets in light and air, so there will be less chance of any problems during the year with pests or disease. It also helps to promote strong and healthy growth!

Cuts must be made with a clean, sharp pair of secateurs. Cuts should be made clean, not ragged or bruised. If pruning thicker parts of the rose, then you may need to use a pair of loppers or even a pruning saw.

The first thing to do when pruning any type of rose is to remove any dead or unhealthy wood, leaving this on the plant not only looks unsightly but also increases the risk of a pest or disease invasion. The next pruning stage is to remove any shoots that are crossing or rubbing against each other.

Now the flowering wood can be pruned. Remember to always prune the rose to an outward facing node! The ultimate rule to remember is that the harder you prune, the more vigorous the subsequent growth will be. Try to avoid too many shoots inside the framework. During the years growth the rose will subsequently become too full and hide some of the flowers, also making future pruning difficult.

Clear up the cutting using a thick pair of gloves. Our advice is to use a pair of riggers gloves for any thorny bushes and shrubs. It's best to dispose or burn the cuttings where possible rather than placing them in your compost pile as they can harbour disease and handling compost full of rose cuttings can be quite painful to your hands!

Mulch around the roses with well-rotted manure or an organic material such as shredded bark.

Looking for more tips on keeping your green space in tip top shape this year? Access our professional support on 01344 985885!

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