What if You Didn't Get Around to Pruning Your Roses?

So you just never got the time to prune your roses last winter and now they're growing like crazy. Should you still prune them?

First of all, your roses will be fine whether you do or you don't. If the buds have only just started to grow, go ahead and prune as usual. But if the new growth is over 6 inches long, you may want to wait until after the first flush of bloom to do any serious pruning. Hard pruning now could weaken the plant. Go ahead and remove any obviously diseased or damaged canes and open the center of the plant. Then enjoy the bloom.

After each cane has bloomed, deadhead as normal, but cut canes further back than usual - far enough so new growth will be at a more reasonable height. Keep the center of the plant open for good air circulation and watch out for diseases like blackspot. They could be more troublesome than usual. Fertilize as usual.

To protect from insects and fertilize all in one step, use Bayer Advanced™ 2-in-1 Systemic Rose & Flower Care Granules.

Products Mentioned In This Article

2-in-1 Systemic Rose & Flower Care Granules