People tie themselves in knots over rose pruning, convinced there is a secret they are missing. There is not. Roses are tough, forgiving plants, and a sensible cut in the dormant season does far more good than harm.
When to do it
For bush roses, late winter is the usual moment, as the worst frosts ease but before growth really gets going. The plant is dormant, the leaves are gone, and you can clearly see the framework of stems you are working with.
The basic cuts
Start, as with any pruning, by clearing out the problems before you shape anything.
- Cut out dead, diseased and spindly stems entirely.
- Remove crossing branches that rub and chafe.
- Open the centre so air can move through the bush.
Where to make the cut
Cut about half a centimetre above an outward-facing bud, with the cut sloping away from it so water runs off. Aiming for an outward bud steers the new growth away from the congested centre and keeps the bush open and healthy.
Don't be timid
Hybrid teas and floribundas flower best on strong new wood, so prune them fairly hard, down to a knee-high open framework. Shrub and climbing roses need a lighter hand. Gather up every clipping and fallen leaf, as they harbour the spores of blackspot ready for spring.