The problem of pruning roses baffles most growers of woody or semi-woody plants in home gardens. These gardeners do not realize that a plant has enormous regenerative capacities and that the older the plant becomes, the less living tissue is disturbed by pruning.
Pruning is the mechanical removal of any part of a plant by design. It is an art based on scientifically deduced principles.
In the United States, the weather and climatic patterns vary so much that any one set pruning routine is mostly inapplicable.
Best Way To Prune Roses
The best way is to guide yourself by principles of plant growth that govern all plants. Then, by applying these to each plant and garden separately, we can arrive at a successful pattern of pruning that suits the immediate needs, wishes, and requirements dictated by the situation and the rose gardener.
Try to shape your plants. For example, remember that sunlight dominates all rose growth, so prune to let sunlight easily reach all shrub parts.
When selecting an appropriate rosebud to be the terminus of any cane, choose a single bud, not one which shows side buds developing. Do not select a double or triple bud.
Choosing single, well-developed, and vigorous buds to end the canes is imperative. The first crop of roses from shrubs is pruned by these methods. It also shows what a well-equipped pruner needs to perform his tasks.
Note the heavy gauntleted gloves, shears saw, clipper, pruning paint bomb, and Topper. All are easily carried and ready to handle by use of the pruning apron. In addition, such a rig is easily stored while not in use.
Pruning is preceded by crown, shank, and bedhead exposure. Then select the producing canes to remain, and remove other canes according to the steps described.
44659 by M. M. `Doc’ Thompson