How Much Do You Prune a Rose Bush?

Importance of Pruning

• In addition to the reasons listed, there are many other important benefits of proper pruning technique for a rose bush. So-called "dead-heading," the removal of faded flowers before they produce seeds for the next blooming season, can lead to healthier blooms over successive generations by eliminating unhealthy blooms. If top growth on the rose bush is blocking sunlight to foliage on the bottom of the plant, pruning away top growth allows all parts of the plant to receive as much sunlight as it needs. Good pruning also allows for good air circulation for the entire plant.

When to Prune

• The best time of year to prune a rose bush depends on the type of rose bush being grown. Rambler rose varieties should be pruned right after the flowering season in early summer while climber varieties are pruned in early spring. Prune old garden roses after spring and modern shrub roses and modern ever-blooming roses during early spring. Consult a gardening store or university extension service if you are not certain which of these categories of roses you are growing in your yard.

How Often to Prune

• As a rule of thumb, roses should be pruned once a year. Maintenance pruning to eliminate disease and allow for complete sunlight exposure should be done as needed any time you notice disease symptoms or lack of sunlight exposure on your roses. Another major reason for pruning roses is to ensure that they grow into the shape and size that you desire for your garden plans, so prune the roses any time they begin to grow outside this shape as well.

Pruning Technique

• Pruning techniques can vary somewhat depending on the species of rose you are growing, but there are a few rules of thumb to which it is always beneficial to pay attention. Always keep pruning tools -- scissor-style hand-held pruning shears, pruning loppers, small saws, etc. -- as sharp as possible to minimize injury to the rose bush. When pruning buds, cut at a 45 degree angle slanting away from the bud. Large cuts should be sealed with white glue to prevent borers and other insects entering the vasculature of the plant.