Proper Way of Trimming Rose Bushes

Question

What is the proper way of trimming rose bushes? I have a ‘long stem’ rose bush. But sometimes more than one bud will come out. How far down from the flower should I cut? (When there is just one flower. ) What time of the day should I cut? Should I give the plant a ‘general trimming’ once a year? What time of the year?

Answer 1

With long stemmed roses also known as hybrid tea roses, if they produce more than one bud, you can snip off the extra buds so that the one bud left will produce a nice big bloom. Or you can leave it alone and allow both to bloom, the choice is yours. When you do remove the old bloom and there are no more buds to bloom on that stem or cane, prune down to the first five leaf junction with the stem or cane. Here is a link to an article I wrote on the topic of deadheading >> https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/roses/rose-deadheading.htm

Here is a link to an article I wrote on general pruning as well >> https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/roses/pruning-roses.htm

The time of day to prune is actually a matter of personal comfort choice. I prefer to do my pruning or deadheading in the early mornings or early evenings when the temperatures are cooler. No sense being out there in the hot sun trying to get the job done. :)

You may do a search on the website where the two article links are for Roseman Stan and find other articles I have written about rose care. Enjoy! And don't be afraid to send in more questions.

Stan The Roseman
Consulting Rosarian
Gardening Know How